Overview

Job 39 continues God’s response to Job, focusing on the intricacies of the animal kingdom as a testament to His sovereignty, wisdom, and care in creation. Through a series of questions, God challenges Job to consider the complexity and independence of various creatures—wild goats, deer, donkeys, oxen, ostriches, horses, hawks, and eagles. Each animal illustrates God’s power, provision, and intricate design, aspects that are far beyond human ability to control or replicate.

This chapter emphasizes God’s unmatched wisdom in creating and sustaining life. Job is reminded of his limited understanding and inability to manage or comprehend the intricate systems God has put in place. The chapter underscores the truth that God’s wisdom and care extend to all His creatures, even those seemingly insignificant or wild. This revelation points to the greatness of God and His worthiness to be trusted and worshiped.

Job 39 teaches that God’s ways, as seen through His creation, are always purposeful and intentional, even if they are beyond human comprehension. The chapter invites believers to reflect on the Creator’s power and wisdom, inspiring humility, awe, and trust in His sovereign care.

Historical and Literary Context

Job 39 is part of God’s speech from the whirlwind, which began in Job 38. It is a poetic exploration of God’s mastery over creation, showcasing His authority over animals and their natural behaviors. The descriptions reflect the ancient Near Eastern context, where people observed animals closely as part of daily life. The wild animals mentioned in this chapter, such as the wild donkey and the eagle, symbolize freedom and strength, while others, like the ostrich, seem to embody humor or paradox, reflecting God’s creative diversity.

Literarily, this chapter employs rhetorical questions and vivid imagery to draw Job’s attention to God’s care for creation and Job’s limited ability to govern or understand it. The focus on animals highlights God’s provision and wisdom in sustaining even the untamed aspects of His world, a theme echoed in Psalm 104, which also celebrates God’s care for His creatures.

This chapter serves as part of God’s challenge to Job, moving him toward humility and a deeper trust in the Creator. It prepares the way for Job’s ultimate response of repentance and submission in the following chapters.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

Job 39 highlights the sovereignty of God as the Creator and Sustainer of life. The detailed descriptions of animals and their unique behaviors demonstrate God’s unmatched wisdom and authority over all aspects of creation. This aligns with biblical passages like Isaiah 40:28, which declares that God’s understanding is beyond measure.

The chapter emphasizes God’s provision and care for all His creatures, from wild goats giving birth to eagles hunting prey. This reflects the biblical teaching that God is intimately involved in His creation, as seen in Matthew 6:26, which assures believers that God values and provides for all living things.

Another theme is the diversity and intentionality of creation. Each animal is uniquely designed, with behaviors and characteristics suited to its environment. This diversity points to the creativity and purpose of the Creator, reminding believers that God’s plans, though sometimes beyond human understanding, are always purposeful and good.

Finally, Job 39 calls for humility and trust in God’s wisdom and care. Job’s inability to answer God’s questions about the animal kingdom highlights human limitations and the need to rely on God’s greater understanding. This theme invites believers to worship God for His greatness and to trust Him in every aspect of life.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Job 39:1-4

“Do you know when the mountain goats give birth? Do you watch when the doe bears her fawn? Do you count the months till they bear? Do you know the time they give birth? They crouch down and bring forth their young; their labor pains are ended. Their young thrive and grow strong in the wilds; they leave and do not return.”
God begins by highlighting the intricate processes of birth and growth in wild animals, which occur without human involvement. This emphasizes His providence and intimate care for creation. The reference to mountain goats and deer, creatures living in remote and inaccessible places, underscores God’s knowledge and oversight of even the hidden aspects of life. Cross-references include Psalm 104:21, which celebrates God’s provision for the needs of all creatures.
Application: Believers are reminded of God’s comprehensive care for His creation and are encouraged to trust His provision in their own lives, even in unseen circumstances.

Job 39:5-8

“Who let the wild donkey go free? Who untied its ropes? I gave it the wasteland as its home, the salt flats as its habitat. It laughs at the commotion in the town; it does not hear a driver’s shout. It ranges the hills for its pasture and searches for any green thing.”
The wild donkey represents freedom and independence, living in untamed wildernesses beyond human control. God highlights that He alone grants such freedom and provides for these animals in barren places. This passage reflects God’s sovereignty over creation, as seen in Psalm 50:10-11, which declares that every beast of the forest and the cattle on a thousand hills belong to Him.
Application: Trust God’s ability to sustain His creation and acknowledge that His provision extends to the wild and untamed areas of life, a reminder of His boundless care and sovereignty.

Job 39:9-12

“Will the wild ox consent to serve you? Will it stay by your manger at night? Can you hold it to the furrow with a harness? Will it till the valleys behind you? Will you rely on it for its great strength? Will you leave your heavy work to it? Can you trust it to haul in your grain and bring it to your threshing floor?”
God contrasts human reliance on domestic animals with the untamable nature of the wild ox. These rhetorical questions remind Job that humanity’s strength and ingenuity cannot subdue all of creation. The wild ox, known for its power, is under God’s control, not man’s. This reflects the theme in Isaiah 45:9, where humanity is cautioned against questioning God’s wisdom and power.
Application: Recognize God’s unparalleled power and trust His ability to manage and govern all aspects of life, even those beyond human strength or understanding.

Job 39:13-18

“The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, though they cannot compare with the wings and feathers of the stork. She lays her eggs on the ground and lets them warm in the sand, unmindful that a foot may crush them, that some wild animal may trample them. She treats her young harshly, as if they were not hers; she cares not that her labor was in vain, for God did not endow her with wisdom or give her a share of good sense. Yet when she spreads her feathers to run, she laughs at horse and rider.”
The ostrich serves as a humorous yet profound example of God’s creativity. While it lacks traditional wisdom and maternal care, its speed and power are unmatched. This contrast illustrates God’s intentionality and design in equipping each creature uniquely. Psalm 104:24 celebrates the variety and wisdom of God’s works in creation.
Application: Trust in God’s purposeful design, even when aspects of creation—or life—seem unconventional or perplexing.

Job 39:19-25

“Do you give the horse its strength or clothe its neck with a flowing mane? Do you make it leap like a locust, striking terror with its proud snorting? It paws fiercely, rejoicing in its strength, and charges into the fray. It laughs at fear, afraid of nothing; it does not shy away from the sword. The quiver rattles against its side, along with the flashing spear and lance. In frenzied excitement it eats up the ground; it cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds.”
God describes the horse’s strength, courage, and readiness for battle, qualities that are beyond human ability to create or control. This majestic depiction highlights God’s role in equipping His creatures with specific abilities for their roles in creation. Cross-reference Psalm 33:17, which states that a horse’s strength cannot save, pointing to God as the ultimate source of security and power.
Application: Acknowledge and worship God as the giver of strength and courage, relying on Him rather than earthly resources for victory and protection.

Job 39:26-30

“Does the hawk take flight by your wisdom and spread its wings toward the south? Does the eagle soar at your command and build its nest on high? It dwells on a cliff and stays there at night; a rocky crag is its stronghold. From there it looks for food; its eyes detect it from afar. Its young ones feast on blood, and where the slain are, there it is.”
The hawk and eagle symbolize freedom, vision, and independence, yet their behaviors are directed by God’s wisdom and command. These birds, soaring to great heights and hunting with precision, reflect God’s mastery over even the most remote and untouchable parts of creation. Isaiah 40:31 encourages believers to hope in the Lord and rise on wings like eagles, drawing strength and perspective from God’s provision.
Application: Reflect on God’s guidance in your life, trusting Him to provide direction and sustenance, just as He does for the hawk and eagle.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Job 39 highlights the sovereignty and wisdom of God over creation, themes that ultimately point to Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God’s revelation. Jesus is the one through whom all things were created and are sustained, as affirmed in John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16-17. The chapter’s vivid descriptions of the animal kingdom demonstrate God’s intricate design and care for His creatures, which mirrors the way Christ upholds all things by His powerful word. The characteristics of strength, freedom, and intentionality displayed in the animals reflect the authority and provision of Christ, who governs both the natural and spiritual realms. Furthermore, Jesus’ teachings often drew from creation, such as His assurance in Matthew 6:26 that God cares for the birds of the air, revealing the Father’s love and inviting humanity to trust in Him. Job 39’s portrayal of God’s intricate and purposeful design sets the stage for understanding Christ’s role as the ultimate redeemer, who restores creation and brings all things under His lordship.

Show How the Chapter Connects to the Father

Job 39 connects to God the Father by emphasizing His role as the sovereign Creator and Sustainer of life. The detailed descriptions of animals and their unique characteristics reveal the Father’s intentionality in creation, reflecting His wisdom and care. The Father’s knowledge extends to the hidden and untamed aspects of the natural world, showcasing His omnipresence and omniscience. This chapter portrays the Father as one who not only sets the boundaries of creation but also actively provides for its needs, demonstrating His ongoing involvement in sustaining life. The Father’s interaction with Job serves as a reminder of His desire to reveal His greatness to humanity, leading His children to trust and worship Him as the source of all life and wisdom.

Show How the Chapter Connects to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is evident in the themes of life and provision throughout Job 39. The Spirit, who was present at creation (Genesis 1:2), continues to sustain and guide all living things, as reflected in the behaviors and instincts of the animals described in this chapter. The Spirit’s role in empowering and equipping creation aligns with the diverse abilities and characteristics God has given each creature. Moreover, the Spirit reveals the majesty of God’s creation to humanity, prompting awe and worship. The Spirit works in believers’ hearts to illuminate the truths of Job 39, enabling them to recognize God’s care and wisdom and to respond with trust and reverence.

Connection to God’s Love

Job 39 reveals God’s love through His detailed care for the animal kingdom and His provision for all creatures. The chapter illustrates how God sustains life in even the most remote and untamed parts of the world, reflecting His compassion and commitment to His creation. This love is further revealed in God’s attention to diversity and purpose, equipping each animal with the traits necessary for survival and flourishing. God’s interaction with Job in this chapter is an act of love, as He invites Job to consider His greatness and trust in His provision. In the broader redemptive story, this care points to God’s ultimate expression of love in Jesus Christ, who reconciles creation to God and restores the relationship fractured by sin. Job 39 reminds believers that God’s love is not only vast but also deeply personal, extending to every corner of creation and calling humanity to rest in His sustaining care.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “God’s Sovereign Care: Trusting the Creator’s Wisdom and Provision”

Introduction:

Begin with a personal story or modern example that illustrates awe at creation, such as observing wildlife or experiencing nature’s grandeur. Relate this to the wonder of God’s intricate design and care for all creatures as described in Job 39. Introduce the main theme: God’s sovereignty over creation and His provision for all living things call us to trust, worship, and find peace in His care.

Main Points:

1. God’s Knowledge and Care for the Hidden (Job 39:1-4):
   God highlights His intimate involvement in the birth and growth of wild animals like mountain goats and deer, processes beyond human observation or control. Emphasize that God’s knowledge extends to the hidden and overlooked aspects of creation, reflecting His sovereignty and care.
   Transition: If God watches over creatures in the remotest places, how much more does He care for His people?
   Application: Encourage the congregation to trust God’s care in areas of life that feel unseen or forgotten.
   Example: Share a story of someone who experienced God’s faithfulness in an unexpected way, demonstrating His attentiveness to their needs.
2. God’s Power in Freedom and Design (Job 39:5-12):
   God speaks of the wild donkey and ox, animals that symbolize freedom and strength, yet remain under His control. Highlight God’s creative purpose in equipping each creature with unique traits for its role in the ecosystem.
   Transition: Just as God grants freedom and strength to these creatures, He gives each of us purpose and abilities to fulfill His plan.
   Application: Challenge believers to trust God’s design for their lives, embracing the unique gifts and callings He has given them.
   Example: Use the analogy of a puzzle, where every piece is uniquely shaped but essential to completing the whole picture.
3. God’s Sovereign Provision for Creation (Job 39:13-30):
   God describes His provision for animals like ostriches, horses, and eagles, each uniquely designed for their environment and tasks. Emphasize that God sustains all living things, even in ways that might seem unconventional or unexpected.
   Transition: If God cares for the needs of animals, how much more does He care for those made in His image?
   Application: Encourage believers to rest in God’s provision, trusting Him to meet their needs and guide their lives.
   Example: Share a personal testimony or story of someone who experienced God’s provision in a challenging season, reinforcing His faithfulness.

Conclusion:

Summarize the key themes of Job 39: God’s sovereignty, care, and provision call us to trust Him fully, worship Him for His greatness, and rest in His design for our lives.

Call to Action: Invite the congregation to reflect on areas where they struggle to trust God’s care and provision. Challenge them to surrender these concerns to Him, trusting in His sovereignty and wisdom. Encourage them to spend time marveling at God’s creation this week as a reminder of His greatness and faithfulness.

Illustrations and Examples

• Modern Analogy: Compare the instincts of animals, such as birds migrating thousands of miles or bees maintaining a hive, to God’s intentional design and care.
• Personal Story: Share a testimony of experiencing God’s provision, such as a financial need met unexpectedly or guidance received in a difficult decision.
• Biblical Example: Reference Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:26, where He points to the birds of the air as evidence of God’s care, connecting this to Job 39.
• Everyday Analogy: Use the image of a shepherd caring for sheep to illustrate God’s provision and protection for His creation.
• Historical Example: Mention figures like George Müller, who trusted God for provision in running orphanages, to inspire trust in God’s faithfulness.

Application for Today’s Christian

Christians can apply the truths of Job 39 by cultivating trust in God’s sovereignty and provision, even in areas where they feel uncertain or out of control. This involves surrendering personal fears and doubts to God, recognizing that His wisdom and care extend to every aspect of life.

Believers are called to worship God for His greatness and creativity, taking time to marvel at the beauty and complexity of His creation. This could involve spending time in nature, reflecting on the unique gifts God has given them, or studying the intricacies of the natural world as a way to deepen their awe of the Creator.

Job 39 also encourages stewardship, as believers recognize their role in caring for God’s creation. This includes practical actions like protecting the environment, showing kindness to others, and using their God-given abilities to serve His purposes.

Finally, Christians are reminded to find peace in God’s provision, trusting that the God who sustains the wild animals will also sustain and guide them through every challenge they face. By embracing humility and trust, believers can live in the assurance that God’s care and wisdom are perfect and sufficient for every need.

Reflection Questions

1. Job 39 describes God’s intimate knowledge of creation, including the hidden and remote aspects of the natural world. How does this truth encourage you to trust God’s care for the unseen areas of your own life?
2. The wild animals mentioned in this chapter, such as the donkey and ox, symbolize freedom and strength, yet they remain under God’s control. How does recognizing God’s sovereignty over creation help you surrender areas of your life where you feel uncertain or out of control?
3. God’s descriptions of His provision for the animals demonstrate His attention to their unique needs and abilities. In what ways have you seen God provide for your specific needs? How does this shape your trust in Him for the future?
4. The ostrich, though lacking wisdom, is still a testament to God’s creative design. How does this example challenge you to see purpose and value in the diversity of God’s creation, including the diversity within the body of Christ?
5. The horse is described as strong, fearless, and ready for battle, reflecting God’s power and equipping. In what areas of your life do you need to rely on God’s strength and courage rather than your own?
6. The hawk and eagle, soaring high and hunting with precision, illustrate God’s control over the most majestic and remote parts of creation. How does this imagery deepen your awe for God’s greatness?