Exodus 7:14-8:19.  The plagues in Egypt were directed toward Pharaoh, who stubbornly refused to release the people of Israel from their bondage. There was a matter of Egyptian religious pride here too.  The Hebrews were merely slaves, why should Pharaoh listen to their God?  So, one by one, God sends plagues, and targets areas of life that the Egyptians rejoice in. The powerful river from which came all life — the frogs whose powerful songs fill the night and promise good luck and fertility — the dust from which springs the grain which sustains man and beast. For each of these areas the Egyptians had a powerful god which they revered. The LORD is getting their attention.

LORD, when things happen that force us to ask why, help us to ask the right person. May we have the wisdom to turn to you in prayer.