Job 39:20 – “Do you make it leap like a locust, striking terror with its proud snorting?”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Job 39:20, God is asking Job if he can control the power and energy of a horse, comparing its movement to the leaping of a locust and its snorting that inspires fear. This imagery brings to mind a warhorse—a creature known for its power, readiness, and strength in the face of battle. The horse’s energy and intensity are qualities that humans can observe but cannot create or control. God is emphasizing that He alone gives these traits to the horse, traits that serve specific purposes in creation. By asking Job if he can command the horse’s behavior, God is reminding him that all strength and power in creation come from the Creator Himself.
Through this question, God underscores His unique authority and control over the world. The horse’s leaping and proud snorting reflect a boldness and energy that defy human control, illustrating that God’s creation contains forces beyond human mastery.
Historical Context
In ancient times, horses were seen as symbols of strength, agility, and readiness for war. They were highly valued in many cultures, especially for their role in battle. The Israelites and other neighboring cultures understood the significance of horses in warfare and transportation, and horses were often admired for their bravery and power. The horse’s “proud snorting” would have been a familiar image to Job’s listeners, representing the intimidating presence of a creature prepared for action.
For Job and his audience, God’s description of the horse would be powerful. They would recognize the image of the warhorse as a symbol of strength and courage. The comparison to a leaping locust, a creature known for its sudden movements and quick energy, would reinforce the idea of the horse’s dynamic power.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Job 39:20 points to God’s ultimate authority and the intentionality behind His creation. God not only gives strength and courage to His creatures but also assigns them specific roles and characteristics according to His wisdom. The horse’s power and readiness for battle are part of God’s design, showing His sovereignty over all aspects of life, including the forces of nature that humans cannot control.
This verse invites believers to reflect on the greatness of God’s power and wisdom. By describing the horse’s energy and pride, God is reminding Job (and us) that every creature’s strength and purpose come from Him. This realization encourages humility, acknowledging that humans, while capable of observing and using creation, are ultimately dependent on God, the source of all power.
Literary Analysis
The language in Job 39:20—“leap like a locust” and “proud snorting”—uses vivid imagery to highlight the horse’s agility and intimidating presence. The comparison to a locust suggests sudden, powerful movements, while “proud snorting” evokes the horse’s confidence and readiness, especially in a battle setting. This poetic language emphasizes the horse’s strength and energy in ways that human effort or understanding cannot capture or replicate.
This verse is part of God’s larger speech to Job, where He uses various animals to illustrate His control over creation. By using specific details like the horse’s leaping and snorting, God invites readers to appreciate the beauty and intensity in His design, showcasing His creativity and intentionality in every aspect of life.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 147:10 – “His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior.” This verse reminds us that while God creates strength, He values reverence and humility in His people more than physical power.
- Proverbs 21:31 – “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.” This verse underscores that while the horse is prepared for battle, the ultimate outcome is in God’s hands.
- Isaiah 31:1 – “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots.” This verse cautions against placing too much trust in human strength or resources, encouraging trust in God instead.
These verses remind us that while God has created strength and power, He desires that our ultimate trust and confidence rest in Him, not in our own resources.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Job 39:20 serves as a reminder that God is the true source of all strength, courage, and energy. While we might be tempted to rely on our own abilities or resources, this verse encourages us to recognize that our strength comes from God. Just as the horse displays power and confidence because of its design, we can find our true strength and courage by depending on God, who empowers us for the challenges we face.
This verse also encourages us to respect and value the qualities in God’s creation. Just as the horse’s strength and energy serve a purpose, each of us is given specific gifts and strengths for a reason. Recognizing that our abilities are gifts from God can inspire us to use them for His glory, while also remaining humble, knowing that He is the ultimate source of all power.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Job 39:20 reflects God’s love by showing that He creates with purpose, giving His creatures specific strengths and roles in the world. God designed the horse with power and readiness, qualities that enable it to fulfill its purpose. This speaks to a God who delights in creation and provides each creature with what it needs to thrive.
God’s love is also evident in His desire for Job to understand His power and wisdom. By describing the horse in such detail, God is guiding Job to a deeper appreciation of His greatness. God’s love includes His invitation to recognize our own limits and to trust in His boundless strength and wisdom.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
In Jesus, we see the ultimate example of God’s strength and humility. Jesus displayed strength not only in physical ways but in His courage, endurance, and willingness to sacrifice Himself for humanity. In Matthew 11:29, Jesus invites His followers to “take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart.” This shows that true strength often includes gentleness and humility.
In Philippians 4:13, Paul writes, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Through Jesus, believers receive the strength to face life’s challenges, knowing that God’s power is available to them. Just as God empowers the horse for its purpose, He empowers His people through Christ, giving them strength and courage to fulfill their callings.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the image of the horse’s strength and energy remind you of God’s creative power?
- What does this verse teach us about God as the source of true strength?
- How can Job 39:20 encourage us to rely on God rather than on our own abilities?
- In what ways does Jesus’s example of humility and strength help us understand our own dependence on God?
- How does this verse encourage us to respect and appreciate the gifts God has given to each of His creatures?
Reflecting on Job 39:20, we are reminded of God’s power, wisdom, and love in all of creation. This verse invites us to trust in His design and to approach life with humility, recognizing that our strength and purpose come from God, who empowers us for every task.