Isaiah 10:18
And shall consume the glory of his forest, and of his fruitful field, both soul and body: and they shall be as when a standardbearer fainteth. And shall consume the glory of his forest, and of his fruitful field, both soul and body: and they shall be as when a standardbearer fainteth.
The fainting standard-bearer pictures the soldiers of Christ, the soldiers of the cross, temporarily giving way in battle in the spiritual conflict. This happens at a stage in the terrible conflict when victory seems to alternate from side to side. On one side in that conflict are the commandment-keeping soldiers of Christ and on the other side are the forces of Satan. The same conflict is between an army led by the insignia of the world and an army led by the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel.
Their giving way is only an apparent retreat and not defeat, made to gain a more advantageous position before advancing again to victory. That apparent retreat is not final defeat but a move to gain better ground before pressing on again. Renewed support comes to the soldiers before victory.
The giving way is followed by renewed shouting and praise, advance under the Captain of salvation, planting of Christ's banner on fortresses held by Satan, final glorious triumph, and establishment of the kingdom of peace and righteousness. The giving way is followed by renewed advance until the soldiers plant His banner on fortresses held by the enemy and win glorious triumph under the Captain of salvation. The struggle continues as Christ directs the battle, supports His soldiers, and leads them step by step to victory.