9 They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.
This is the fourth judgment that is poured out on all the inhabitants of the earth. This one ends with a very sad statement. In the middle of these obvious judgments by God, these people refuse to turn from their rebellion and submit to God. They would rather be stubborn than receive relief and comfort. This is a sad commentary on humankind. We can get so determined to get our way that we miss the obvious signs that our way is not working. I think of married couples where one person is always pushing for a resolution of some situation and the other person withdraws. The more the one partner pushes, the more the other withdraws. And even after the pushing partner realizes this is what is happening, they still push harder thinking somehow harder pushing will change the behavior of the withdrawing partner. The only way to change the dance of the marriage is for the one pushing for resolution to stop pushing. Then the withdrawing partner can stop, breath and move back toward the pushing partner. But boy is it hard to stop pushing for a closure! These people have been pushing against God’s influence their whole lives. Why would we expect them to all of a sudden stop pushing against God, especially when God is now punishing the sins of mankind! But the bigger picture is that God wants repentance, even in the middle of judgment. God does not enjoy double wrath. Jesus already took the wrath of God that our sins deserve. On the Cross He bore every cost that our sins rightfully earned. He paid the complete price. So when God brings these punishments onto these people, He is grieved because He has already paid the price to prevent them from having to be punished. I can imagine His grief at seeing the wasted suffering of Jesus, all because they refuse to turn.
The Arnold Journey 