At one of my recent Bible study groups, a participant shared about her daughter’s axolotl-themed birthday party, complete with an adorable axolotl cake. I couldn’t help but marvel at this peculiar little creature. The axolotl, often called the “walking fish,” is a unique amphibian with feathery gills, the ability to regenerate limbs, and a permanent smile. Indeed, its existence is a fascinating reminder of God’s limitless creativity in the natural world!
But as unique as the axolotl is, it’s far from the only marvel in creation. In today’s reading from Job 40-42, God shifts Job’s perspective by pointing to two other extraordinary creatures: the Behemoth and the Leviathan.
Lessons from Behemoth and Leviathan
God uses these mighty creatures to showcase His unmatched sovereignty and creative power.
1. Behemoth – The Land Monster (Job 40:15-24)
- Strength lies in stillness: Behemoth’s power is portrayed in its calm and unshaken presence. It stands firm and immovable, confident in the provisions of its Creator (vv. 20, 23). This quality reminds us that true strength often lies in trusting God fully and finding peace in His sovereignty: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
- God’s care extends to His whole creation: All creatures, even the Behemoth, rely on God for their sustenance and safety (v. 15; see also Psalm 50:10-11).
2. Leviathan – The Sea Monster (Job 41:1-34)
Leviathan is described as a great and untamable creature of the sea, one that strikes fear into the hearts of humans. Through its depiction, God demonstrates His sovereignty over the untamable, chaotic, and fearsome aspects of creation.
- Sovereignty over chaos: Leviathan is a symbol of chaos and forces beyond human control. Yet God asserts His authority over this fearsome creature. He asks Job, “Can you pull in Leviathan with a fishhook or tie down its tongue with a rope?” (Job 41:1). This reminds us that God remains in control, even over the storms of our lives.
- Beauty in fearsome design: Leviathan is not only terrifying but also intricately designed, reflecting God’s artistic mastery. Its scales are described as impenetrable armor, “tightly sealed” so that “no air can pass between them”(Job 41:15-16). Its breath ignites flames, and its eyes are like “the rays of dawn” (Job 41:18-21). Leviathan challenges us to look for beauty and meaning, even in the aspects of life we fear or struggle to understand.
Celebrating Job’s Restoration
Yay! The book of Job is done and dusted! How comforting to read that Job’s latter end was even more blessed than his beginning:
“And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job… and the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.”(Job 42:10)
Job experienced earthly restoration after a season of suffering.
However, not all hardship ends in earthly restoration. God’s plans are far bigger than our present circumstances, and His ultimate goal is for His people to spend eternity with Him (John 14:2-3).
For those of us who have lost someone due to hardship, we can take comfort in these promises:
- Eternal restoration awaits the faithful in Christ (Revelation 21:4).
- Suffering has a purpose in God’s eternal plan (2 Corinthians 4:17).
Even when we grieve, we can take heart that in the Lord, nothing is lost forever. God’s sovereignty ensures that every hardship we face will ultimately have meaning, whether in this life or in eternity.
Prayer
“Lord, open my eyes to Your sovereignty in creation’s wonders. Teach me to trust in Your power and to see Your majesty, even in the chaos. Remind me that Your plans are always good and that restoration awaits in Your eternal presence. May my awe lead to deeper faith in Your perfect rule. Amen.”
To all my subscribers, as promised, please expect an email later today with instructions on how to snag your Book of Job freebie! Thanks for your support…
Leave a Reply