Exodus 8:12

After Moses and Aaron had left Pharaoh, Moses cried out to the LORD for help with the frogs that He had brought against Pharaoh.

Study Bible

After Moses and Aaron left Pharaoh
This phrase sets the scene for a significant moment of intercession. Moses and Aaron, as God's chosen leaders, have just confronted Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, who represents the epitome of earthly power and resistance to God's will. The act of leaving Pharaoh signifies a transition from human confrontation to divine intervention. Historically, this reflects the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the Egyptians, where God's power is continually demonstrated over the might of Egypt. The departure from Pharaoh's presence underscores the futility of relying solely on human authority and the necessity of seeking divine assistance.

Moses cried out to the LORD
The Hebrew root for "cried out" is "צָעַק" (tsa'aq), which conveys a deep, earnest plea or call for help. This is not a casual prayer but an intense supplication, reflecting Moses' role as an intercessor for his people. In the broader scriptural context, crying out to the LORD is a recurring theme where God's people, in times of distress, turn to Him for deliverance. This act of crying out signifies a profound dependence on God, acknowledging His sovereignty and mercy. It is a reminder of the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God's intervention in times of crisis.

for help with the frogs
The plague of frogs was the second of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt, each designed to demonstrate His supremacy over the Egyptian gods and to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Frogs were associated with the Egyptian goddess Heqet, symbolizing fertility and life. By inundating Egypt with frogs, God was directly challenging the Egyptian pantheon and their belief systems. Moses' plea for help with the frogs highlights the severity of the plague and the need for divine resolution. It serves as a testament to God's control over creation and His ability to use it to fulfill His purposes.

He had brought against Pharaoh
This phrase emphasizes God's active role in the events unfolding in Egypt. The plagues were not random occurrences but were divinely orchestrated acts of judgment against Pharaoh and the Egyptian gods. The use of "brought against" indicates a deliberate and purposeful action by God to confront and dismantle the oppressive structures holding His people captive. It reflects the biblical theme of God's justice and His commitment to liberating the oppressed. Historically, this underscores the narrative of God's deliverance of Israel, a foundational event that shapes the identity and faith of the Jewish people and, by extension, the Christian faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He acts as an intermediary between God and Pharaoh.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother and spokesperson, who assists Moses in confronting Pharaoh and performing signs.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go, leading to the plagues.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty through the plagues.

5. The Plague of Frogs
The second plague sent by God upon Egypt as a judgment against Pharaoh's refusal to release the Israelites.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Moses' act of crying out to the LORD demonstrates the importance of prayer in seeking divine intervention. Believers are encouraged to bring their concerns to God, trusting in His power and timing.

God's Sovereignty
The plagues reveal God's control over creation and His ability to use natural elements to fulfill His purposes. This reminds us of God's ultimate authority over all circumstances.

Intercession for Others
Moses intercedes on behalf of Pharaoh, showing the role of believers in praying for others, even those who oppose them.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's resistance to God's commands serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice and instructions.

Faith in Action
Moses and Aaron's obedience in confronting Pharaoh despite the challenges encourages believers to act in faith, trusting in God's promises and commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' response to the plague of frogs demonstrate the importance of prayer in difficult situations? Reflect on a time when prayer changed your perspective or situation.

2. In what ways does the account of the plagues in Exodus challenge or strengthen your understanding of God's sovereignty? How can this understanding impact your daily life?

3. Consider the role of Moses as an intercessor. How can you apply the principle of intercession in your own prayer life, especially for those who may be resistant to God's message?

4. Reflect on Pharaoh's hardened heart. What are some areas in your life where you might be resisting God's guidance, and how can you work towards a more receptive heart?

5. How does the account of the plagues connect with the broader account of God's deliverance and redemption throughout the Bible? How can this perspective encourage you in your personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:14-25
Provides context for the plagues, beginning with the turning of the Nile into blood, which sets the stage for the subsequent plagues, including the frogs.

Psalm 105:30
Reflects on the plagues as part of God's mighty acts in Egypt, emphasizing His power and faithfulness to His covenant people.

Revelation 16:13
Symbolically references frogs in the context of end-times judgments, drawing a parallel to the plagues of Egypt.