Job 39:2

Can you count the months they are pregnant? Do you know the time they give birth?

Study Bible

Do you count
This phrase invites reflection on the omniscience of God compared to human limitations. The Hebrew root for "count" is "saphar," which implies not just counting but also recounting or declaring. It suggests a depth of understanding and awareness that humans lack. In the context of Job, it underscores the theme of God's comprehensive knowledge of creation, contrasting with Job's limited perspective. This serves as a reminder of the divine order and the meticulous care God exercises over all aspects of life.

the months they fulfill
The phrase refers to the gestation period of animals, highlighting the natural order established by God. The Hebrew word for "months" is "yerach," which can also mean "moon," indicating the lunar cycles that govern time. This reflects the precision and regularity of God's creation. The fulfillment of months signifies the completion of a natural process, emphasizing God's sovereignty over time and life cycles. It is a call to recognize the intricate design and purpose in God's creation, which operates beyond human control or understanding.

or do you know
This rhetorical question challenges human understanding and knowledge. The Hebrew word "yada" for "know" implies an intimate, experiential knowledge. It suggests that while humans may observe and study, only God possesses true, comprehensive knowledge. This is a humbling reminder of the limitations of human wisdom and the need to trust in God's perfect understanding and timing.

the time they give birth
The phrase points to the specific moment of birth, a critical event in the life cycle. The Hebrew word for "time" is "eth," which denotes a fixed, appointed time. This highlights God's control over the timing of events in creation. The birth of animals, like all aspects of life, occurs according to God's perfect plan. This serves as an assurance of God's providence and care, encouraging believers to trust in His timing and purposes, even when they are beyond human comprehension.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man of great faith and patience, who undergoes severe trials and questions God's purposes.

2. God
The Creator, who speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, challenging Job's understanding of the natural world.

3. Wild Animals
The context of Job 39 includes God's discourse on the natural world, specifically the birth and life cycles of wild animals, demonstrating His sovereignty and wisdom.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Creation
God is intimately aware of the details of His creation, including the life cycles of animals. This reminds us of His ultimate control and knowledge over all aspects of life.

Human Limitations
The rhetorical questions posed to Job highlight human limitations in understanding and controlling the natural world, encouraging humility before God.

Trust in God's Wisdom
Just as God knows the time of birth for wild animals, He knows the details of our lives. We can trust His timing and wisdom in our circumstances.

The Value of Creation
God's attention to the details of animal life underscores the value He places on all creation, encouraging us to respect and care for the environment.

Faith in Unseen Processes
Many processes in life, like the gestation of animals, occur unseen. This teaches us to have faith in God's unseen work in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's knowledge of the natural world affect your view of His involvement in your personal life?

2. In what ways can recognizing human limitations lead to a deeper trust in God?

3. How can the themes in Job 39:2 encourage you to respect and care for the environment?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to trust God's timing and wisdom, as illustrated by His care for the animals?

5. How can you apply the lesson of faith in unseen processes to your current life situation, drawing from the example of animal gestation in Job 39:2?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 104
This Psalm praises God for His creation and providence, similar to God's discourse in Job 39, highlighting His care for all creatures.

Matthew 6:26
Jesus speaks about God's provision for the birds, emphasizing trust in God's care, akin to the message in Job 39 about God's knowledge and control over creation.

Isaiah 40:26
This verse speaks of God's power and wisdom in creation, paralleling the themes in Job 39 of God's intimate knowledge of the natural world.