They will surely gather
Isaiah 54:14 In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. 54:15 Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.
In the journey of faith, we just opposition will arise. This opposition may come from various sources—people, circumstances, or spiritual forces. However, the promise we find in the scripture text for today is both comforting and empowering. God assures us that although adversaries may gather against us, they will surely fall.
This gathering of adversaries can take many forms—challenges in our personal lives, conflicts in our relationships, struggles in our spiritual walk, or even broader societal pressures. The very fact that opposition arises should not surprise us, for Jesus Himself said, "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33).
Opposition is not an indication of God’s absence; but, it is most time a sign that we are moving in the direction God has ordained. The enemy gathers to distract, discourage, and ultimately derail us from God’s purpose. But God’s sovereignty assures us that even when they gather, it is not by His command.
Isaiah emphasizes, “but not by me.” This is a crucial reminder that any opposition we face is not from God. He is not the author of confusion or the instigator of evil. God’s plan for us is one of peace, protection, and purpose. The adversary may gather, but God is not the one orchestrating their schemes.
This should bring us great comfort. God remains in control. He is aware of every plot, every scheme, and every attack that comes our way. While He allows opposition to arise, it is not because He is powerless to stop it but because He has a greater purpose for us. He uses what the enemy meant for evil and turns it for our good (Genesis 50:20).
We have a powerful promise: “whoever attacks you will surrender to you.” This is the ultimate assurance of victory. The adversaries may gather; they may launch their attacks, but they will not prevail. God has already declared the outcome—victory belongs to the Lord and His people.
This victory may not always look like we expect. Sometimes it’s a victory of peace in the midst of turmoil, of strength in the face of weakness, or of faith in the face of fear. But regardless of the form it takes, God’s promise is that we will overcome.
In Ephesians 6:12, Apostle Paul reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. This spiritual battle requires spiritual weapons—faith, prayer, the Word of God, and the power of the Holy Spirit. With these, we can stand firm, knowing that the battle is the Lord’s.
In moments of trial, when it seems like the forces of opposition are too great, remember the words of the prophet: "They will surely gather, but it will not be by Me." And take heart, because whoever gathers against you will not succeed—they will surrender. Victory is assured, not because of our strength, but because of the God who fights for us.
In conclusion, God has given us the assurance that although the enemy may gather, they do so without His blessing, and they will ultimately fall. Our role is to remain steadfast, to trust in God’s sovereignty, and to wield the spiritual weapons He has given us.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, scatter every gathering of adversaries against my life and your church in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, grant strength to all those who are week in the spirit, amidst life challenges in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.