This metaphor of warfare is used in the Book of Job, in a passage where
our English Version does not show it. So I venture to substitute the
right translation for the one in the Authorised Version, 'All the days
of my warfare will I wait till my change comes.' The guard will be
relieved some day, and the private that has been tramping up and down
in the dark or the snow, perhaps within rifle's length of the enemy,
will shoulder his gun and go into the comfortable guardhouse, and hang
up his knapsack, and fling off his dirty boots, and sit down by the
fire, and make himself comfortable. There is a 'heavenly manner of
relieving guard.' Soon it will be the end of the sentry's time, and
then, as one of those that had done a good day's work, and a long one,
said with a sigh of relief, 'I have fought a good fight.' Henceforth
the helmet is put off, which is 'the hope of salvation,' and the crown
is put on, which is salvation in its fullness. 'All the days of my
warfare will I wait'--till my Captain relieves the guard.