Job 39:11

Can you rely on his great strength? Will you leave your hard work to him?

Study Bible

Will you rely
The phrase "Will you rely" invites introspection about trust and dependence. In the Hebrew context, the word for "rely" often conveys a sense of leaning upon or trusting in something or someone for support. This is a call to examine where one's trust is placed. In the broader biblical narrative, reliance on God is a recurring theme, emphasizing faith and trust in His sovereignty and provision. The rhetorical question here challenges the reader to consider the reliability of human strength versus divine strength.

on his great strength
The "great strength" refers to the immense power and capability of the creature being described, which in the context of Job 39, is the wild ox or a similar strong animal. The Hebrew word for strength often denotes might and power, attributes that are frequently ascribed to God Himself throughout Scripture. This comparison serves to highlight the futility of relying solely on earthly power when divine strength is infinitely greater. Historically, the wild ox was a symbol of untamed power, and its mention here underscores the limitations of human control over nature.

and leave your hard work to him?
The phrase "and leave your hard work to him?" suggests a transfer of responsibility or burden. In the Hebrew tradition, work is often seen as a partnership with God, where human effort is complemented by divine guidance and provision. The rhetorical nature of the question implies the absurdity of entrusting one's labor to a creature rather than to God. This serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that while humans are called to work diligently, ultimate reliance should be on God, who sustains and blesses the work of our hands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man of great faith and patience, Job is the central figure in the Book of Job. He undergoes severe trials and suffering, which test his faith and understanding of God's sovereignty.

2. God
The Creator and Sustainer of all things, God speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, challenging Job's understanding of divine wisdom and power.

3. The Wild Ox
In this passage, God uses the wild ox (often translated as "unicorn" in older versions) as an example of a creature with great strength, which humans cannot control or rely upon for labor.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
God uses the example of the wild ox to remind us of His ultimate control over all creation. We are to recognize His power and authority, acknowledging that our understanding and control are limited.

The Limitations of Human Reliance
The rhetorical questions posed in Job 39:11 challenge us to consider the futility of relying on our own strength or the strength of others. True reliance should be placed on God, who is all-powerful and all-knowing.

Trust in God's Provision
Just as the wild ox cannot be relied upon for labor, we are reminded to trust in God's provision and timing. He knows our needs and will provide according to His perfect will.

Humility in Our Understanding
This passage calls us to humility, recognizing that our understanding of God's ways is limited. We are to submit to His wisdom and trust in His plans for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the wild ox in Job 39:11 illustrate the limitations of human strength and control?

2. In what ways can we apply the lesson of relying on God's strength rather than our own in our daily lives?

3. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Job 39:11 connect with other scriptures that emphasize His control over creation?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate trust in God's provision, as suggested by this passage?

5. How can we develop a humble attitude towards our understanding of God's plans, as encouraged by the message in Job 39:11?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 104:14
This verse speaks of God's provision for the earth and its creatures, highlighting His sovereignty over creation, similar to the themes in Job 39.

Isaiah 40:29-31
These verses emphasize God's strength and the futility of relying solely on human strength, paralleling the message in Job 39:11 about the limitations of relying on the strength of the wild ox.

Proverbs 3:5-6
This passage encourages trust in the Lord rather than one's own understanding, aligning with the lesson in Job 39:11 about reliance on God rather than on the strength of creatures.