How does Job 39:17 illustrate God's sovereignty over creation and wisdom distribution? Setting the Scene Job 39:17: “for God has deprived her of wisdom; He has not endowed her with understanding.” • The “her” is the ostrich (v. 13–18), a creature whose odd parenting habits puzzle observers. • God Himself speaks these words, pointing Job to creation as evidence of divine prerogative. What the Verse Declares about God • God is the active subject—He “has deprived” and “has not endowed.” • Wisdom and understanding are not innate nor random; they are gifts God chooses to give—or withhold. • Even the quirks of a single bird fall under purposeful divine design. Sovereignty over Creation • Genesis 1:1—God created everything; therefore, every trait in creation ultimately traces back to His will. • Psalm 104:24 “How many are Your works, O LORD! In wisdom You made them all; the earth is full of Your creatures.” The ostrich’s seeming folly is still part of God’s wise artistry. • Romans 9:20 reminds us that the creature cannot question the Creator’s choices. Sovereignty over Wisdom Distribution • Proverbs 2:6 “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • Daniel 2:21 “He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” • By portraying a creature lacking insight, God underscores that every shred of understanding anywhere in the universe is His to allocate. Lessons for Us • Humility: If an ostrich’s limitations are God-given, so are ours. We cannot boast in native intellect. • Dependence: James 1:5 urges us to request wisdom from the source who “gives generously.” • Worship: Observing even “foolish” creatures should draw us to honor the One who wisely ordains all variety. Takeaway Job 39:17 uses the ostrich to illustrate that both the design of creation and the apportioning of wisdom lie completely in God’s hands. Recognizing this deepens humility, fuels reliance on Him, and magnifies His glory. |
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