Link Job 39:21 & Ps 147:10-11 on delight.
How does Job 39:21 connect to Psalm 147:10-11 about God's delight?

Job 39:21

“He paws in the valley and rejoices in his strength; he charges into battle.”


Psalm 147:10-11

“He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of the warrior. The LORD delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His loving devotion.”


The Warhorse God Designed

• God Himself celebrates the horse’s fearless power (Job 39:19-25).

• Verse 21 captures the animal’s raw enthusiasm: it “rejoices in his strength” and races “into battle.”

• The horse’s vigor is intentional, crafted by the Creator as a display of His own greatness (cf. Job 40:9; Psalm 104:24).


God’s Perspective on Human Reliance

Psalm 147 shifts the focus from created strength to the Creator’s priorities.

• Two things God “does not delight in”:

– “the strength of the horse.”

– “the legs of the warrior.”

• One thing He does delight in:

– “those who fear Him, who put their hope in His loving devotion” (hesed).

• Similar reminders: Psalm 33:16-18; Isaiah 31:1; Zechariah 4:6; 1 Samuel 17:47.


How the Passages Fit Together

Job 39:21: strength is real, impressive, and completely God-given.

Psalm 147:10-11: strength, though real, is not the basis of God’s favor.

• The connection:

Job 39 showcases power as testimony to God’s wisdom and sovereignty.

Psalm 147 clarifies that God’s ultimate pleasure rests not in the display of power but in humble, trusting hearts.

• Both texts together keep us from two errors:

– Dismissing physical strength as unspiritual.

– Idolizing strength as if it secured God’s approval.


Living It Out

• Recognize every talent, resource, or ability as God’s handiwork (James 1:17).

• Refuse to stake confidence on natural advantages (Psalm 20:7).

• Cultivate reverent dependence—fear Him and hope in His steadfast love (Proverbs 3:5-7).


Key Takeaways

• God designed power; He is not impressed by it.

• What thrills heaven is a heart bowed in awe, lifted in trust.

• Strength becomes worship when it yields to the One who gave it.

What can we learn about God's sovereignty from the horse's strength in Job 39:21?
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