What is the meaning of Job 38:36? Who has put wisdom Job 38:36 opens with God’s probing question: “Who has put wisdom…?” • The inquiry is rhetorical; only the LORD Himself, “the only wise God” (Romans 16:27), can claim this role. • In Proverbs 2:6 we read, “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • James 1:5 echoes the same reality: if anyone lacks wisdom, he must ask God, because God alone is its source. • By asking Job this question, the Lord reminds him—and us—that no human, no angelic being, no created power can manufacture true wisdom. God is the Creator not merely of matter and energy but of every spark of insight that lights the human soul. in the heart The verse continues, pinpointing where God deposits wisdom: “…in the heart.” • Scripture consistently locates genuine wisdom in the inner person. Proverbs 4:23 urges, “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” • Psalm 51:6 affirms, “Surely You desire truth in the inmost being.” • Jeremiah 31:33 promises a new covenant in which God writes His law on the heart. • Wisdom is therefore not external trivia but a divinely installed compass at the core of our being—guiding motives, shaping desires, directing choices. or given understanding Next comes the companion gift: God has “given understanding.” • Understanding is the capacity to process and apply truth. When Solomon prayed, God answered, “I will give you a wise and discerning heart” (1 Kings 3:12). • Psalm 119:34 pleads, “Give me understanding, that I may keep Your law.” • Colossians 1:9 speaks of “all spiritual wisdom and understanding,” underscoring that comprehension of life’s mysteries is God-bestowed, not self-generated. • Every moment of clarity regarding His purposes, every flash of discernment in confusing circumstances, comes from His gracious hand. to the mind Finally, God pinpoints the faculty He enlightens: “to the mind.” • Romans 12:2 calls believers to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind.” • Ephesians 4:23 commands, “be renewed in the spirit of your minds.” • 1 Corinthians 2:16 celebrates that “we have the mind of Christ,” a direct outcome of God’s impartation. • 2 Timothy 2:7 reminds us, “Consider what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all things.” • The intellect is not sidelined in Scripture; rather, God engages it, sanctifies it, and equips it for His glory. summary Job 38:36 underscores that every ounce of authentic wisdom and understanding originates with God, is implanted deep within the heart, expressed through the mind, and sustains a life that honors Him. Human capacity is derivative; divine generosity is primary. Recognizing this truth humbles us, anchors our confidence in the Lord, and propels us to seek Him continually for the insight we need. |
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