What practical lessons can we apply from the ostrich's example in Job 39:13? Job 39:13—The Ostrich on Display “ ‘The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, but cannot match the pinions and plumage of the stork.’ ” (Job 39:13) What We Observe in Job 39:13–18 • Joyful wings, yet flightless • Eggs laid on open ground, exposed to danger (vv. 14–15) • Apparent disregard for her young (v. 16) • Lacking wisdom because “God deprived her of wisdom” (v. 17) • Incredible speed that leaves a horse behind (v. 18) Practical Lessons for Everyday Life • Use, but Do Not Waste, God-Given Gifts – The ostrich has powerful legs, not wings for flight. Likewise, we steward the strengths God has actually given (1 Peter 4:10). – Comparison with others (“cannot match the pinions…of the stork”) breeds frustration; focus instead on the unique role God assigned you (Romans 12:4-6). • Joy Should Be Paired with Wisdom – The bird “flap[s] joyfully,” yet her neglect imperils her eggs. Emotion without discernment can ruin good intentions. – Proverbs 19:2: “It is not good to have zeal without knowledge.” Enthusiasm must be guided by truth. • Protect What Is Entrusted to You – Leaving eggs on bare ground pictures careless oversight. We guard marriages, children, ministries, finances—whatever God entrusts—rather than assuming they will thrive unattended (1 Timothy 5:8). • Count the Cost Before Acting – Luke 14:28 calls us to calculate the cost; the ostrich’s apparent thoughtlessness is the opposite example. Planning honors God. • Humility About Our Own Limits – God alone assigns wisdom (James 1:5). Recognizing gaps keeps us teachable, whereas the ostrich “laughs at the horse and its rider” (v. 18) and embodies overconfidence. • Delight in God’s Varied Design – Even flawed creatures reveal divine creativity (Job 12:7-10). Observing the ostrich leads to worship, reminding us that different does not mean accidental. Living It Out This Week ✔ Identify one natural strength God has given you and invest in it rather than wishing for someone else’s. ✔ Pair enthusiasm with a plan—write one concrete step to safeguard what matters most. ✔ Pray for wisdom daily (Proverbs 3:5-6; James 1:5), acknowledging that true understanding comes from the Lord, not self-reliance. The ostrich’s quirks invite us to rejoice in our Creator, steward our gifts wisely, and weave careful thought into every joyful endeavor. |
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