I have been reading through the first few chapters of Exodus in my morning readings concerning the ten plagues poured out on Egypt before the 'Exodus' of the Israelites from the land. Even though I know this story well, it never ceases to surprise me that Pharaoh hardened his heart so many times. We read that he either 'hardened his heart' or that his 'heart became hard' several times in chapters 7 and 8 before it is stated that 'the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart' in chapter 9. Verse 16 comprises God's message to Pharaoh through Moses: I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you My power and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth. ' God knew the material He was working with, a man who hardened his heart in the face of miraculous signs and wonders. Many had the same reaction when Jesus healed the sick before their eyes in the New Testament - they refused to believe. God's sovereign will is perform...