The Ninth Plague: Total Darkness (Exodus 10:21–29)
God told Moses to stretch out his hand toward the sky so that a deep darkness would spread over the entire land of Egypt. This was not just a regular night time darkness; it was a supernatural darkness so thick that the Egyptian people could actually feel it. For three whole days, the sun did not shine, and the Egyptians could not see one another or even leave their houses. It was as if the whole world had stopped for them because they were trapped in the heavy gloom.
But there was something amazing happening at the very same time. While all of Egypt was pitch black, the Israelites had bright light in the places where they lived. God was showing everyone that He is the Creator of light and that He protects His people. When Pharaoh saw this, he tried to bargain with Moses again. He said the people could go, but they had to leave their animals behind. Moses refused, saying they needed their livestock to worship God. Pharaoh became very angry and told Moses to leave and never come back, warning him that if he saw Moses' face again, Moses would die. Moses replied that Pharaoh was right, he would not see his face again.
When we look at this story, we see how God has total power over the sun and the stars. Some people wonder how the darkness could be felt. It is interesting to note that even today, when there are massive dust storms or unique atmospheric events, the air can feel heavy and thick, but the Bible shows us this was a special, divine sign of God's authority over the Egyptian gods who were supposed to control the sun.
A Curious Question
Imagine being in a room so dark you couldn't even see your own hand in front of your face for three days! Why do you think God chose to give the Israelites light in their houses while the rest of the land stayed completely dark?
Jesus Connection
This physical darkness in Egypt reminds us of the spiritual darkness of sin. Just as the Egyptians were trapped and couldn't see, sin keeps us from seeing the truth about God. But the Bible tells us that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World. He came to bring salvation to everyone who follows Him, moving us out of the dark and into His wonderful light. Through the gospel, we learn that Jesus gives us the light of life so we never have to walk in darkness again.
Discussion Questions
- How do you think the Egyptians felt being stuck in total darkness for three days?
- Why was it important that the Israelites had light while the Egyptians did not?
- Why did Moses refuse to leave the animals behind when Pharaoh told him to?
- Pharaoh got very angry at the end of the story. What does this tell us about his heart toward God?
“So What” What Can I do?
- When you feel scared of the dark or unsure about something, how can you remember that God is the provider of light?
- In what ways can you be a light to your friends this week by showing them God's kindness?
- How can we practice obeying God completely, like Moses did, instead of only halfway like Pharaoh wanted?
Memorize God's Word
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" (Psalm 27:1)
- The Lord: Point both index fingers up toward the sky.
- is my light: Move hands out from your face like a sun bursting open.
- and my salvation: Cross arms over your chest in a hug of safety.
- whom shall I fear?: Shake your head "no" and put your hands on your hips confidently.
Praying with Kids
Dear Father, thank You for being the Light of the World. Thank You that even when things feel dark or scary, You are with us and You give us Your light. Help us to follow You with our whole hearts and to trust Your power just like Moses did. Help us to share Your light with others every day. Amen.
Craft: The "Light in the Dark" Lantern
Kids will create a simple paper lantern that represents the light the Israelites had in their homes while Egypt was in darkness.
Materials Checklist
Instructions
- Fold the black construction paper in half lengthwise.
- Cut slits along the folded edge, stopping about an inch before the top edge.
- Unfold the black paper and roll it into a cylinder, then glue the edges together.
- Roll the yellow paper into a slightly smaller cylinder and slide it inside the black one. Glue it in place so the yellow "light" shines through the slits.
- Cut a small strip of paper to use as a handle and glue it to the top.
- Write the memory verse (Psalm 27:1) on the handle or the bottom of the lantern.
Effective Teaching Techniques
- Atmosphere: To make the story more impactful, briefly turn off the classroom lights or have the kids close their eyes tightly while you describe the three days of darkness.
- Visual Aid: Use a high powered flashlight in a dark room to show how a single light can pierce through even the deepest darkness.
- Prep Shortcut: Pre-cut the slits in the black paper for younger children to save time and ensure the lanterns stay sturdy.