What does Job 14:9 teach about God's power to renew life? Setting the scene Job laments the brevity of human life, yet he pauses to notice how God bakes renewal into creation itself. His illustration of a stump bursting back to life offers a window into God’s unmatched power to renew. Observing the text “Yet at the scent of water it will bud and put forth shoots like a sapling.” (Job 14:9) • “Yet” – a strong contrast: death-like finality is not the last word. • “At the scent of water” – even the faintest touch of God-given refreshment is enough. • “Will bud … put forth shoots” – certainty, not possibility. • “Like a sapling” – vigorous, youthful growth, not a mere survival. Key truths about God’s renewing power • God brings life out of what looks dead. • See Ezekiel 37:5 – “I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live.” • His life-giving work begins with something small: a scent, a whisper of grace. • 1 Kings 19:12 – God speaks in a gentle whisper, yet transforms Elijah. • The renewal is visible and fruitful. • Psalm 92:12 – “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree.” • Renewal comes from outside the dead stump; the power is entirely God’s. • John 15:5 – “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” Renewal pictured in nature • Dry roots respond instantly when rain returns—illustrating resurrection power. • Seasons preach the gospel: winter “death,” spring “resurrection.” • Psalm 104:30 – “You send forth Your Spirit, they are created, and You renew the face of the earth.” Renewal promised for people • Spiritual: “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) • Physical: “He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies.” (Romans 8:11) • Ultimate: Revelation 21:5 – “Behold, I make all things new.” Living out the lesson • No situation is beyond God’s reach—expect fresh shoots. • Stay close to the “water” of the Word (Ephesians 5:26). • Encourage others: if a stump can sprout, a soul can revive. |
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