It’s a strange question, but in its Bible context, it’s a means to encouragement. As Jeremiah is complaining (Jeremiah 12:1, 2 ESV) over how wicked people seem to get by unscathed, it’s clear that his confidence is flagging, and he needs a reality check.
So the Lord gives him one, in terms of a challenge (v. 5):
“If you have raced with men on foot, and they have wearied you,
how will you compete with horses?
And if in a safe land you are so trusting,
what will you do in the thicket of the Jordan?”
The Lord goes on to remind Jeremiah that he had been betrayed by his own relatives who had been in pursuit of him. It’s an interesting exchange, and reminds us that God is real, and at “the gut level,” understands our predicaments and wants to help us deal with them.
This time, instead of comforting Jeremiah with kind words, God gives him a wake-up call. In so many words, He says, “Jeremiah, stop being naive! Judgment is certain, but not yet. In My time and in My way, people will answer for their deeds, but for now, remember that you are in a fallen world of people who don’t know Me and don’t care to know Me. In fact, it’s going to get worse, so get ready!”
The Apostles Paul and Peter say similar things to remind believers of the trials of the Last Days, as does Jesus in Matthew 24. So what shall we take from this hard-to-digest reminder?
First, if you are surprised at the evil in the world, you have not been paying attention. The entire Bible outlines and highlights this conflict which is older than the Garden of Eden.
Second, get up to speed. This is war, not Club Med! Climb out of your hot tub mentality and get your head out of the clouds. While the world is filled with wonder, it also is filled with people whose interests will run counter to your own, and to God’s.
Finally, remember that Jesus taught us that discipleship involves suffering, and that disciples must play their long game, not looking always for short term gains. While the Lord always is working for our good, there will be days when it looks like the bad guys are winning. They aren’t, but you will see that only through the eyes of faith.
This long term view on suffering enabled Jesus to bear the horrors of the Cross, and will enable you to endure your hardships as well.
Yes, you can run with the horses.
“Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
Hebrews 12:1-3