Job 39:19-25 is about God displaying his majestic power and wisdom through the strength and fearlessness of the ostrich, highlighting how even creatures like the ostrich are under His control and design.
19 “Do you give the horse his might?
Do you clothe his neck with a mane?
20 Do you make him leap like the locust? His majestic snorting is terrifying.
21 It paws in the valley and exults in its strength; it goes out to meet the weapons.
22 He laughs at fear and is not dismayed;
he does not turn back from the sword.
23 “The quiver rattles against him,
the flashing spear and javelin.
24 He laughs at fear and is not dismayed;
he does not turn back from the sword.
25 As often as the trumpet sounds he says, ‘Aha!’ and he smells the battle from afar, the thunder of the captains, and the shouting.
Setting the Scene for Job 39:19-25
In Job chapter 39, we find ourselves in a vast and open field on a warm, sunny day. The scene is set with Job, a righteous man who has faced immense suffering and loss, seeking solace and understanding from God. As Job sits in contemplation, a majestic horse named Thunder appears, galloping across the field with strength and grace. Thunder’s coat shimmers in the sunlight, and his mane flows in the wind as he approaches Job.
Thunder is joined by his companion, Lightning, a powerful and spirited mare who exudes energy and vitality. The two horses stand before Job, their presence commanding attention and awe. Job is struck by the beauty and majesty of these creatures, realizing the intricate design and wisdom of God’s creation. As Thunder and Lightning move gracefully around Job, he is reminded of the divine order and purpose in all living beings, including the wild and untamed animals that roam the earth.
Surrounded by the peaceful serenity of the field and the powerful presence of Thunder and Lightning, Job is filled with a sense of wonder and reverence for God’s creation. In this moment of connection with the natural world, Job finds comfort and reassurance that God is sovereign and wise beyond human understanding. The horses, symbols of strength and freedom, serve as a reminder to Job of the intricate beauty and order woven into the fabric of creation by the hand of God.
What is Job 39:19-25 about?
Let’s dive into this powerful verse together. God is revealing His supreme authority and knowledge to Job by asking a series of rhetorical questions about the intricate details of creation in this passage. God challenges Job to contemplate the complexity and beauty of the natural world by posing these questions, ultimately emphasizing that only He has the wisdom and power to create and sustain such marvels.
Imagine standing in awe of a breathtaking sunset or witnessing the delicate balance of ecosystems in nature. Through these wonders, God is inviting us to reflect on His limitless capabilities and infinite wisdom. This verse reminds us of the humbling truth that despite our curiosity and understanding, we can never fully grasp or replicate the intricate designs of creation that are manifested by the Divine Creator. It is a call to marvel at the greatness of God’s works and acknowledge His supremacy over all things.
Understanding what Job 39:19-25 really means
Job 39:19-25 is a poignant segment of God’s response to Job, where the focus is on the majestic and powerful creation of the horse. This poetic passage vividly portrays the strength, courage, and fearlessness embodied by the horse, symbolizing divine power and magnificence. The imagery used in these verses prompts us to reflect on the awe-inspiring qualities of God’s creation and the inherent connection between the natural world and the divine.
“Do you give the horse its strength or clothe its neck with a flowing mane?” This rhetorical question emphasizes that the horse’s strength and beauty are not products of human effort but are bestowed as gifts from God. It serves as a humbling reminder of the source of all strength and vitality in our lives. The subsequent description of the horse laughing at fear, unafraid and undeterred by the sword, showcases the bravery and fearlessness that stem from divine empowerment. It challenges us to embody similar courage in the face of life’s adversities, drawing strength from our faith and trust in God.
The passage further illustrates the horse’s exuberance and joy in its power, as it paws fiercely and charges into the fray. This depiction of vitality and enthusiasm reflects the vigor and energy that God instills in His creation. It encourages us to approach life with a similar zest and passion, embracing the gifts and abilities we have been granted by our Creator. The parallel biblical passages, such as Psalm 147:10-11 and Isaiah 40:29-31, reinforce the theme of divine strength and the importance of placing our trust in God rather than relying solely on our own capabilities.
In today’s fast-paced and self-reliant society, it is easy to overlook the source of our strength and talents. Job 39:19-25 serves as a timely reminder for us to acknowledge and appreciate the gifts we have received from God. It prompts us to face challenges with courage and confidence, knowing that our true strength comes from a higher power. The anecdote of the young athlete underscores the transformative power of faith and prayer in times of adversity, highlighting the profound impact of trusting in God’s provision for strength and success.
In conclusion, Job 39:19-25 eloquently conveys the message of God’s sovereignty and the divine origin of our strength and courage. By internalizing this truth, we can navigate life’s trials with assurance and thankfulness, drawing on the wellspring of divine empowerment within us. Let us be inspired by the horse’s unwavering strength and fearlessness, striving to emulate its courage and unwavering trust in God’s unfailing support.
How can we trust God’s sovereignty in trials?
God speaks to Job about the innate characteristics of animals He has created and cares for in Job 39:19-25. This passage reminds us of God’s sovereignty and power over all aspects of creation. It shows that God is intricately involved in the details of the animal kingdom, with His wisdom and control displayed in each creature’s unique behavior and abilities.
When we face trials and challenges in our own lives, we can trust in God’s sovereignty by reflecting on His deep understanding of all things, as demonstrated in Job 39:19-25. God is fully aware of even the smallest details of His creation and is also intimately aware of our struggles and hardships. His sovereignty gives us assurance that He is in control, even when circumstances seem overwhelming or chaotic.
Furthermore, this passage highlights God’s faithfulness in providing for His creation. We can trust that God will provide for us in the midst of our trials, just as He cares for the needs of each animal. We can find peace and hope even in the midst of difficulty by recognizing God’s sovereignty and provision in every aspect of our lives, knowing that He is always with us and working all things for our ultimate good.
Application
Pause in amazement at the craftsmanship of God’s creations, just like you admire a well-oiled machine at work or the harmony in a happy family. Marvel at the wisdom and precision found in every corner of nature. Let this stir your soul to acknowledge the magnificent power of our Creator in every aspect of life. Will you take a moment to appreciate and worship the source of all beauty and wonder in this world?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.