Apologies to those who dont like spiritual discussion. I wont continue beyond this.
Maybe the hardening of a heart in these examples is more of a byproduct of the persons heart condition in response to Gods action more than a direct hardening.
For example, God, knowing the condition of Pharoahs heart decides to take an action. This action hardens his heart even more because of his own attitude towards the situation.
Sometimes, when its time to take the iPad away from my 8 year old, his reaction is less than favorable. You could say that I hardened his heart for a time, though there was no emotional tinkering on my part... just an immature response from him for something he didnt like.
Just a thought. Im not married to it.
Carry on :hi: