God Gives Strength and Direction

Isaiah 26:4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:

How long are we to trust in God? Forever, time without end. When we choose to place our trust in the Lord, we will find the strength and energy we need to do the things He would have us do—to meet the trials of life without fear—to gain victory over sin—to serve Him by serving others. The Hebrew for the word “strength” includes the idea of God as our refuge, our protection in danger and distress. That describes a position of strength—not fear.

Isaiah 26:5-6 For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust. The foot shall tread it down, even the feet of the poor, and the steps of the needy.

The reference to those that dwell on high has been referencing those who are proud—those who feel they are self-sufficient.

“The lofty city” – The last city we referenced was Babylon and the last nation referenced was Moab. I don’t think it is important to be able to identify the particular city. The point is that God hates pride, and He is the one that is sovereign and is the ultimate authority regarding the destiny of a man, a city, or a nation. When He chooses to humble or bring down, He does so completely.

“the poor…the needy” – This seems to be referencing verse 4 of chapter 25 in reference to the conquered Jews and on into the future to men of faith in the kingdom of Antichrist. They will one day be in a position to exalt in the defeat of their enemies.

Isaiah 26:7 The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.

The way (path, manner) of the just (lawful, righteous, clean) man is uprightness (evenness, prosperity, straightness, pleasant). The word “weigh” indicates “prepares.” There are two verses from Psalms that apply here I think.

Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD:

Psalm 18:36 Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.

God is the most upright; He sets the standard against which we judge what is just and righteous. Those who choose to walk/live a clean life according to His standards will find that his/her path in life has been prepared by the Lord. The prosperity experienced may include material blessing and honor from men, but it most assuredly applies to spiritual blessings for eternity. When God orders the steps of those who are His, it is to accomplish His purposes. When he enlarges the steps of a man, He is empowering that man not to fall--to be an overcomer.

There was an interesting article from Aish.com by Rabbi David Aaron entitled “Discovering Your Unique Path.” In it he made a thought-provoking comparison between a “way” and a “path,” that fits right in with the Hebrew for this verse.

“….Vilna Gaon, one of the greatest Jewish sages of the 18th century…. quotes Ecclesiastes: "In all your ways know God, and He will straighten your path." Then Vilna Gaon explains the difference between a "way" and a "path": A "way" is known to everyone. Everyone knows where the highway is. It's the highway, a public thoroughfare. But a "path" is off the beaten track. A path is not public. It is the private and unique way for the individual.

There are certain ways that we serve God that are common to us all. These ways are not unique to any of us. They are the highways of life. You can't get anywhere unless you get on those highways. However, once you get on the public highway, suddenly you will see a sign that says, ‘David -- exit 3 miles left.’ That is where David turns off to continue his journey to fulfill his mission. Now Jan who was also on the highway sees David get off and feels a little jealous. "Lucky guy! He found his path." But with some patience Jan plods forward until she discovers her path. And sure enough there's a sign for her too. ‘Jan, 5 miles exit left.’”