How can we apply the lesson of Job 39:18 to trust in God's plan? Setting the Scene Job 39 records God’s tour of creation, pointing Job to creatures that highlight divine wisdom. Verses 13–18 describe the ostrich—a bird that seems foolish, yet possesses breathtaking speed. The climactic statement is verse 18. Key Verse “Yet when she lifts herself on high, she laughs at the horse and its rider.” (Job 39:18) What We Notice About the Ostrich • Appears careless: lays eggs on the ground, seemingly forgetful (vv. 14–15). • Lacks traditional “bird wisdom”: “God has deprived her of wisdom; He has not endowed her with understanding.” (v. 17). • Still gifted: when she runs, even a warhorse can’t catch her (v. 18). • Her abilities come directly from the Creator, not from her own insight. Lessons About Trusting God’s Plan • God’s design is purposeful—even when it looks puzzling. If He invests the ostrich with speed in place of wisdom, He can weave our strengths and weaknesses into a perfect plan. • Perceived disadvantages do not cancel divine intention. Our “gaps” invite dependence on the Lord’s sufficiency (2 Corinthians 12:9). • God values outcomes we seldom measure. The ostrich fulfills its role without the skills we might deem essential. Likewise, our lives succeed when we walk in the works He prepared for us (Ephesians 2:10). • The Creator controls the race. A horse and rider symbolize power, but they cannot outrun the bird God empowers. Trust means resting in His sovereign allocation of gifts and opportunities. Practical Ways to Lean Into This Trust • Name your “ostrich moments.” Acknowledge areas where you feel ill-equipped, then thank God that His design includes them. • Celebrate unique gifting. Instead of comparing yourself to the “horse and rider,” identify the speed God has placed in your legs—abilities suited to your calling. • Obey first, understand later. Act on clear commands (e.g., forgive, serve, share the gospel) even when the strategy seems unclear. • Refuse envy. When others appear better positioned, remember the ostrich outruns cavalry by God’s decree. • Anchor decisions to Scripture. The Word displays God’s trustworthy track record; leaning on it dissipates fear (Psalm 119:105). Supporting Scriptures for Deeper Confidence • Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart…He will make your paths straight.” • Romans 8:28: “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God…” • Isaiah 55:8–9: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts…My ways higher than your ways.” • Psalm 37:5: “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it.” • 2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Like the ostrich, we may seem mismatched for the challenges ahead, yet God equips each of His children perfectly for His purposes. Trust Him, run your race, and let His plan unfold. |
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