Ex. 7:3. I will harden Pharaoh’s heart. How are we to understand this Scripture? The Bible indicates that the natural inclination of man is to oppose God (Rom. 3:9-23; Rom. 5:10). Furthermore, Romans 1:24 reveals that God, in certain cases, allows men to follow the evil desires of their own hearts. God does not force men to do good or evil. The Bible tells us clearly, “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God, for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempts he any man.” James 1:12, 13. God according to his overall knowledge of individuals and according to His purposes, may simply have allowed Pharaoh, in his pride and sinfulness, to do as he desired.

Ex. 8:15, 19, 32. Pharaoh hardened his heart.

Ex. 9:7 The heart of Pharaoh was hardened and he did not listen to them…

Ex. 9:12 Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, neither would he let Israel go…(and God hardened P. heart

Ex. 9:34, 35 Pharaoh sinned more and hardened his heart, he and his servants…

Ex. 10:1, 28 And the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart so that I might show my signs before him.

1Sam. 6:6. Why do you harden your hearts as did the Egyptians and Pharaoh harden their hearts…

Rom. 9:17 God permitted Pharaoh to come to power so He could demonstrate His divine control of all events…

James 1:13-15 God cannot be tempted and He tempts no one…