The pride of Pharaoh. God provided so many warnings but he wouldn’t listen. Did he think he was above them? That they didn’t apply to him? Maybe he did not value Moses’ authority, or believe he spoke for God?
Similarly, in our day “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” provides clear warnings:
“We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.” (P9)
Using this week’s lesson, asking ourselves about these warnings: Like Pharaoh, am I ignoring them? Have I convinced myself they don’t apply to me or those I love? Do I dismiss the author and authority of the prophets who teach truth? Am I walking in my own counsel as though I know better than God?
“My people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me. So I gave them up unto their own hearts’ lust: and they walked in their own counsels.” (Ps. 81:11–12)
OR…
Am I trying, really trying like the Children of Israel to cover myself and loved ones, and stop the destroyer at our door?
Anciently they covered their doors, literally with the blood of the lamb. Today we do that by understanding and keeping our covenants, repenting and calling on the power of the Savior’s teachings and atonement, by following His prophets.
Pharaoh didn’t, but we can hear the warnings, soften our hearts, and lay down our pride.