It all starts with a vision. A vision of better things to come.
There are four verbs in Isa.54:2 Enlarge, Stretch, Lengthen, Strengthen. Each of these action words require effort, determination and sacrifice. One's willingness to do extra work begins with a captivating vision. It becomes worthwhile when we catch a grand vision of what things can be. We will be willing to go the second mile, carry the excess load, push through unpenetrable barriers for a worthy and glorious cause.
When Isaiah saw the vision, the nation of Israel was in tatters. Dust, ruins, darkness and despair were in charge. Many Jews were deported as slaves to faraway lands. The misery seem to last without end and the glimpse of relieve only came when they were told that it would endure for 70 years. In those dire times, Isaiah saw a vision that encompasses 3 areas. A vision so grand and majestic that invigorated the people of God to prepare for better days soon to come.
1. Isaiah saw a vision of multiplication. "Isa.54:1 The barren woman will sing because more will be her children than the woman who has a husband. Isa.54:3 ...you will spread to the right and to the left." The population was almost decimated except for a small group of survivors. God told them they will multiply again. There will be so many that they will grow and occupy the length and breadth of the land.
2. Isaiah saw a vision of battles won. "Isa.54:3 your descendants will dispossess nations. Isa.54:15b ..whoever attacks you will surrender to you. Isa.54:17 No weapon forged against you will prevail.." They will no longer be victims but they will be victors. They will move from slave-hood to son-hood. They will no longer run away like chickens but rise up as champions.
3. Isaiah saw a vision of restoration from brokenness. Isa.54:11,12 "O afflicted city lashed by storms and not comforted, I will rebuild you with stones of turquoise, your foundations of sapphire....rubies..sparkling jewels...precious stones." It goes beyond just rebuilding, it moves into beautifying and significant value increase due to the materials used. It means that God will make things far far better than before.
God's will is to increase the church and increase the ministry's impact in the world. Many will find joy and peace in Jesus. God wants to increase you, increase your influence, increase your standing. 2016 is not a year without battles, but a year of battles won. You will experience many victories. Shattered dreams will be resurrected and perfected. It is going to be better than before. Far far better. Enlarge the vision. It's time to believe.
Isaiah 54:2-3 (NIV) “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.For you will spread out to the right and to the left; your descendants will dispossess nations and settle in their desolate cities.
