Pharaoh asks the question for the ages, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him?” [Ex 5:2] Characteristic of the Lord, He does not respond directly; the answer comes with the unfolding of the ten plagues. Each plague is a response to Pharaoh’s question. And each additional plague is more severe than the previous one.

As the events unfolded, the stakes got higher. The Lord demonstrated himself to Pharaoh through the first nine plagues, yet Pharaoh refused to believe the Lord should be obeyed.

After the thick darkness of the ninth plague that affected the Egyptians but not the camp of Israel, the Lord, through Moses, raised the stakes. He required that Pharaoh himself provide animals for the Israelites’ sacrifices; “You must also let us have sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God. Our livestock also must go with us; not a hoof shall be left behind.” [Ex 10:25-26]

With each experience Pharaoh had with the Lord, more was required of him. Today, our lives are a response to the question, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey Him?” We can choose to spend our time, talent and treasure for ourselves or expend it for Him where it will last.

As we have more experiences with the Lord, more will be required of us. Jesus teaches in Luke 12:48, “Everyone to whom much is given, of him will much be required …” We are called to respond in radical ways to the Lord’s work in our lives—offering ourselves as a living sacrifice. Only then will we sense His pleasure and joy evermore. Who is the Lord, that you should obey him? Start your response here.