Job 39:10

Can you hold him to the furrow with a harness? Will he plow the valleys behind you?

Study Bible

Can you hold him to the furrow with a harness?
This phrase refers to the wild ox, or aurochs, a powerful and untamable animal mentioned in the context of God's discourse to Job. The rhetorical question highlights the strength and independence of the wild ox, which cannot be domesticated or controlled by humans. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the wild ox symbolized strength and was often depicted in art and literature. The furrow represents the agricultural work that domesticated animals, like oxen, would perform. The inability to harness the wild ox underscores human limitations and contrasts with God's sovereign power over creation. This imagery connects to the broader biblical theme of God's control over nature, as seen in Psalm 104:14, where God provides for the earth's creatures.

Will he plow the valleys behind you?
This question emphasizes the futility of attempting to use a wild ox for plowing, a task reserved for domesticated animals. The valleys represent fertile agricultural land, essential for sustaining life in the ancient world. The imagery of plowing suggests preparation and productivity, activities that require cooperation and submission, qualities absent in the wild ox. This serves as a metaphor for the unpredictability and uncontrollability of certain aspects of life, reminding Job of his limited understanding and power. The passage reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's wisdom and authority, as seen in Isaiah 55:8-9, where God's ways and thoughts are higher than human ways. The wild ox, in its untamed state, can also be seen as a type of Christ, who embodies strength and sovereignty, yet chooses submission to the Father's will, as demonstrated in Philippians 2:7-8.

Persons / Places / Events

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

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

3. The Wild Ox
A symbol of strength and untamed power, used by God to illustrate His control over creation and the limitations of human power.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
God uses the example of the wild ox to demonstrate His ultimate control over all creatures. Humans, despite their ingenuity, cannot tame or control everything in creation. This reminds us to acknowledge God's sovereignty in our lives and the world around us.

Human Limitations
The rhetorical questions posed by God highlight human limitations. We are reminded to approach life with humility, recognizing that our understanding and abilities are finite.

Trust in God's Wisdom
Just as Job is challenged to trust in God's wisdom, we too are called to trust in God's plan, even when we do not understand it. This trust is foundational to a life of faith.

The Role of Humility in Faith
Job's encounter with God teaches us the importance of humility. We must be willing to submit to God's greater knowledge and purpose, especially in times of trial.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the wild ox in Job 39:10 illustrate God's power and human limitations?

2. In what ways can acknowledging God's sovereignty over creation impact our daily lives and decision-making?

3. How do the themes in Job 39:10 relate to the call to trust in God's wisdom found in Proverbs 3:5-6?

4. What are some areas in your life where you struggle to relinquish control and trust in God's plan?

5. How can the lessons from Job 39:10 encourage you to approach challenges with humility and faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 104
This psalm praises God for His creation and providence, similar to how God describes His control over nature in Job 39.

Isaiah 40
This chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and the futility of human efforts without His guidance, paralleling the message in Job 39.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in God's wisdom over our understanding, reflecting the lesson God imparts to Job.

Romans 11:33-36
Paul marvels at the depth of God's wisdom and knowledge, echoing the themes of divine wisdom in Job 39.