What can we learn about God's purposes from "deprived her of wisdom"? The Setting in Job 39 “ ‘Yet she leaves her eggs on the ground to warm in the sand… For God has deprived her of wisdom; He has not endowed her with understanding.’ ” (Job 39:14, 17) Key Observation: Wisdom Withheld by Design The ostrich’s lack of maternal instinct is not accidental; it is attributed directly to God. Scripture presents this as purposeful, not negligent. What God’s Purposes Look Like in This Verse • Divine Sovereignty Displayed – God crafts every creature precisely. Psalm 104:24: “How many are Your works, O LORD! In wisdom You made them all.” – Even perceived “deficiencies” serve His plan (Romans 9:20). • Variety in Creation Revealed – The ostrich contrasts sharply with the eagle just a few verses earlier, highlighting God’s creative range. • Human Pride Humbled – Job cannot correct the ostrich’s behavior, underscoring man’s limits (Job 38:2). – Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us His thoughts are higher than ours. • Power and Provision Affirmed – Though “deprived of wisdom,” the ostrich thrives, running faster than a horse (Job 39:18). God compensates the deficit with other gifts. • Moral Lesson Illustrated – 1 Corinthians 1:25: “The weakness of God is stronger than men.” What appears foolish in creation testifies to a deeper wisdom. Implications for Believers • Trust God’s Design – Personal limitations may be deliberate avenues for His strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Celebrate Diversity in the Body – Like differing creatures, believers have varied roles (1 Corinthians 12:14-20). • Maintain Humility – Recognizing that even our understanding is granted or withheld by God fosters reverence. • Rest in Providence – If God sustains an “unwise” bird, He surely sustains His people (Matthew 6:26). Takeaway The phrase “deprived her of wisdom” teaches that God intentionally weaves both strengths and weaknesses into creation to manifest His sovereignty, humble humanity, and magnify His multifaceted wisdom. |
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