Does Job, sitting in the ashes, understand that he is the battlefield between right and wrong?
The Lord focused Job’s attention on the ostrich, the world’s largest bird (200-300 lbs). It’s the fastest two-legged land animal and can top 40 mph! Thus, says the Lord, “When she lifts herself on high, she scorns the horse and its rider” (Job 39:18). On average, domestic horses can run at about 30 mph, although the Quarter Horse may achieve speeds up to 55 mph. However, the Lord’s lesson for Job from the horse is not its speed, but that it is strong and spirited and stouthearted. He portrays a war horse eager to ride into battle. The description is magnificent: “Have you given the horse strength? Have you clothed his neck with thunder?…He paws in the valley, and rejoices in his strength; he gallops into the clash of arms. He mocks at fear, and is not frightened; nor does he turn back from the sword. The quiver rattles against him, the glittering spear and javelin. He devours the distance with fierceness and rage; nor does he come to a halt because the trumpet has sounded. At the blast of the trumpet he says, ‘Aha!’ He smells the battle from afar, the thunder of captains and shouting” (vv 19, 21-25). It’s so obvious that the Lord has never lost His joy in the creatures He’s made! Now note this crucial fact: the rebellion of the angels made Him the Warrior God. In order to rescue those He calls Satan’s “goods” (Lk 11:21), He too rode into battle, fierce and unafraid. Does Job understand that he’s part of that great battle? We’ve seen the war that’s been raging for his loyalty. And in spite of the artillery brought against him, Job’s faith has remained steadfast. Armor on, believer! Let’s follow our Captain into the fray, “who always leads us in triumph” (2 Cor 2:14). Obviously, God loves a good fight—“the good fight of faith” (1 Tim 6:12).