Meditating on Isaiah 40:31: The Power of Gathering in the Spirit

Meditating on Isaiah 40:31: The Power of Gathering in the Spirit

December 20

Recently I meditated on Isaiah 40:31, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint”, and this scripture has led me to profound realizations. It also brings to mind another scripture that states, "For where two or more are gathered in my name, there am I among them" (Matthew 18:20 ESV). This verse echoes the idea of gathering in the spirit, much like those who patiently wait upon the Lord. These individuals are actively engaged in creating a bond, resembling the strength of a three-fold cord that forms a robust rope. This gathering process is a journey of spiritual understanding and identity. As we participate in it, we lay the foundation for the spiritual strength needed to navigate life's challenges, freeing ourselves from the grip of fear and worldly concerns.

Fear is often an unwelcome companion during life's trials, but it's essential to remember that fear does not originate from God. As we find in 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV), "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." In the midst of daunting circumstances, we are presented with a choice: to embrace fear or to accept the peace and power that Jesus offers. Just as Jesus calmed the tempestuous Sea of Galilee by saying, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid" (Matthew 14:27 ESV), we too can speak to our situations, declaring, "Peace, be still" (Mark 4:39 ESV). Through this declaration of faith, we possess the ability to redirect the course of our circumstances.

Isaiah 40:31 beautifully illustrates how those who wait upon the Lord will undergo a transformation similar to that of a chameleon adapting to its surroundings. When we choose to speak from a position of faith, we tap into the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:28 (ESV) reinforces this truth: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." While the devil may seek to instill fear, death, and destruction, Jesus came to bestow life, and life in abundance (John 10:10). Ultimately, we must decide whether we will dwell in fear or faith, recognizing that our words hold the power to shape our reality.

The ultimate decision is ours: life or death. Deuteronomy 30:19 (ESV) exhorts us with these words: "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live." When we speak, we should do so from a place of faith, connecting with the spiritual realm—the Jacob's ladder place (Genesis 28:12), the Isaiah 40:31 place, the very dwelling place of God. With unwavering confidence, we declare that we are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:37 ESV).

When two or more individuals gather in His name, they create a powerful, unbreakable bond in the Spirit. In their midst, God is present, and they become instruments of transformation. The tangible power of Jesus and the mighty movement of the Holy Spirit are palpable. As we discuss these profound spiritual truths, our spirits are quickened, and together we begin to realize God’s awesome presence where 2 or 3 are gathered in His name, and that one can chase a thousand, but two can chase ten thousand (Deuteronomy 32:30): there is a spiritual compounding that occurs when people join together in unity, and together we can quickly and thoroughly defeat any situation that befalls us!

This form of waiting is not passive; it differs significantly from the world's approach, which often consists of mere hope and wishful thinking. Instead, it is an active and confident waiting, grounded in the assurance that we already possess the change agent—the Holy Spirit—and the omnipotent power of God. As heirs to the throne, children of the King of kings and the Lord of lords, we gather with Him, consciously creating the spiritual environment necessary for the given moment and place. We understand that even when we speak in our native language, we can be communicating in tongues, as the message may not be immediately clear to those around us. This parallels how Jesus often spoke in parables that some did not initially comprehend. However, those who drew near to Him and sought understanding were granted deeper insights into His teachings.

Just as Jesus explained the meaning of His parables to His disciples, when we draw near to God, He reveals His truths to us. In this process, He dispels the darkness of our limited understanding and grants us eyes to see. The ability to discern between worldly talk and spiritual talk is a gift from the Spirit of God, allowing us to distinguish between the two. Speaking in tongues may manifest in languages we comprehend. The key is to engage with the spiritual realm, drawing closer to God and seeking His wisdom and revelation. Even if our words appear unintelligible to others, they carry the power of the Spirit. As we approach God with humility, acknowledging our limited understanding, He guides us into all truth and aligns our hearts and words with His divine purpose. By doing so, we attune ourselves to the frequency of His presence and operate in the power of faith.

In conclusion, reflecting on Isaiah 40:31 illuminates the profound power of gathering in the Spirit. When two or more assemble in His name, they generate a spiritual synergy capable of altering circumstances and ushering in divine revelations. We hold the choice to speak from a position of faith or fear, understanding that our words possess the potential to shape our reality. By drawing near to God, seeking His wisdom, and allowing the Spirit to lead us, we can speak in tongues— or our native language—aligning ourselves with God's divine purpose and power. In all things, let us choose life, embrace faith, and welcome the transformative power of the Spirit, for God is with us.