Job 39:15

She forgets that a foot may crush them, or a wild animal may trample them.

Study Bible

She forgets
The phrase "she forgets" refers to the ostrich, as described in the preceding verses. In Hebrew, the word used here is "שָׁכַח" (shakach), which means to forget or ignore. This highlights the seemingly careless nature of the ostrich, which is used metaphorically to illustrate a lack of wisdom or understanding. In the broader context of Job, this serves as a reminder of the limitations of human wisdom compared to God's infinite understanding. The ostrich's behavior is a divine creation, and its apparent neglect is part of God's mysterious design.

that a foot may crush them
The imagery of "a foot may crush them" speaks to the vulnerability of the ostrich's eggs, which are laid on the ground. The Hebrew word for "crush" is "דָּרַךְ" (darakh), meaning to tread or trample. This vulnerability is a stark contrast to the strength and speed of the adult ostrich. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a metaphor for the fragility of human life and endeavors, which can be easily disrupted or destroyed. It serves as a humbling reminder of our dependence on God's protection and providence.

or that a wild animal may trample them
The phrase "a wild animal may trample them" further emphasizes the danger to the ostrich's eggs. The Hebrew word for "wild animal" is "חַיָּה" (chayah), which refers to living creatures, often used to describe untamed or wild beasts. This highlights the natural world's unpredictability and the inherent risks present in creation. In the context of Job, it underscores the theme of divine sovereignty over creation, where even the seemingly chaotic and dangerous aspects of nature are under God's control. This serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the trust we must place in His divine plan, even when it is beyond our understanding.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man of great faith and patience, who undergoes severe trials and suffering. The book of Job is a dialogue about the nature of suffering and God's sovereignty.

2. God
The speaker in this passage, who is responding to Job. God is illustrating His wisdom and power through the natural world.

3. Ostrich
The animal being described in this verse. Known for its lack of wisdom in caring for its young, the ostrich serves as an example in God's discourse to Job.

4. Wilderness
The natural setting where the ostrich lives, symbolizing the untamed and often harsh realities of life.

5. Wild Animals
Representing the dangers present in the natural world, which the ostrich seems oblivious to.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Creation
The passage highlights God's control and understanding of all creation, even in aspects that seem foolish or careless to human eyes.

Human Limitations
Like the ostrich, humans often lack understanding of God's greater plan. We must trust in His wisdom beyond our comprehension.

Trust in God's Provision
Despite the ostrich's neglect, life continues. This can remind us to trust in God's provision and care, even when circumstances seem precarious.

Awareness of Spiritual Dangers
Just as the ostrich is unaware of physical dangers, we must be vigilant against spiritual dangers that can threaten our faith.

Humility Before God
Recognizing our limitations should lead us to humility and reliance on God's wisdom and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the ostrich in Job 39:15 challenge our understanding of wisdom and care in God's creation?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and wisdom in the natural world around us, as illustrated in Job 39?

3. How can the seemingly careless nature of the ostrich teach us about trusting in God's provision, as seen in Matthew 6:26?

4. What are some spiritual dangers we might be unaware of, and how can we become more vigilant against them?

5. How does recognizing our limitations before God, as seen in Job's account, lead us to a deeper humility and reliance on Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 30:18-19
This passage also speaks of the wonders of creation, highlighting the mysterious ways of nature, similar to God's discourse in Job.

Matthew 6:26
Jesus speaks of God's care for the birds, contrasting human worry with divine provision, which can be related to the ostrich's seemingly careless nature.

Isaiah 40:28
This verse speaks of God's understanding being unsearchable, paralleling the theme of God's wisdom in Job 39.