The Unintended Captives

Reading through Exodus 10, I noticed something I hadn’t really thought about before. The Israelites weren’t the only ones trapped by Pharaoh’s decisions—his own people were, too. His refusal to let them go wasn’t just about maintaining control over an enslaved population; it also prolonged suffering for the people he ruled.

Plagues, Pride, and Poor Choices

At this point in the story, Egypt has endured eight plagues. Water has turned to blood, swarms of frogs, lice, flies, diseased livestock, boils, and hail have devastated the land. Each time, Pharaoh has had the option to let the Israelites leave and bring an end to the disaster. Each time, he refuses. Even when his own officials warn him that Egypt is falling apart, he won’t change course.

In Exodus 10:7, Pharaoh’s advisors urge him, saying:

“Let the people go, so that they may worship the Lord their God. Do you not yet realize that Egypt is ruined?”

It’s a striking moment. His own people see what he refuses to acknowledge—his choices are making things worse for everyone. While Pharaoh holds the Israelites in bondage, he is also keeping Egypt locked in a cycle of destruction.

When Leaders Double Down

This raises an interesting question: how often do leaders, or even individuals, hold on to a position long past the point where it makes sense? Pharaoh’s case is extreme, but history is full of examples of people in power refusing to admit when something isn’t working. Even when the consequences are obvious, even when those closest to them try to intervene, pride or fear of losing control keeps them from changing course.

Stubbornness: A Group Project

But this isn’t just about leadership on a large scale. It makes me wonder about the ways people, in general, can become stuck in their own decisions. Are there times when stubbornness makes life harder for those around us? When holding on to an idea or a position causes harm, not just to ourselves, but to others who have no say in the matter?

The Cost of Control

Exodus 10 offers an example of what happens when refusing to adapt has real consequences. Pharaoh’s choices don’t just affect him; they shape the lives of everyone under his rule. It’s a reminder that decisions—especially those made from a place of pride or resistance—often extend beyond the person making them.

Knowing When to Let Go

So what does it take to recognize when it’s time to let go? That’s a harder question to answer. In Pharaoh’s case, he waited until the devastation became unbearable. But for those willing to listen—to advisors, to experience, to the reality of the situation—it doesn’t have to go that far.

This passage leaves me wondering: How often do people mistake control for strength? And when does holding on become more costly than letting go?