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For it is said indeed that being embodied the Istari had needs to learn much anew by slow experience, and though they knew whence they came the memory of the Blessed Realm was to them a vision from afar off, for which (so long as they remained true to their mission) they yearned exceedingly. Thus by enduring of free will the pangs of exile and the deceits of Sauron they might redress the evils of that time.
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I maintain that the 'power' limitation was a conscious act of submission. In
Letters Tolkien tells us that Gandalf's death in fighting the Balrog was a sacrifice and a humiliation to him, but demonstrated his loyalty to the regulations of the Valar. It was because of this subjection that he was enhanced (and I also contend that this 'enhancement' was merely a provision for a more open use of power) and returned. Had he not complied with the will of the Powers, he would likely have defeated the Balrog, but would have ultimately failed in the same way that Saruman had, because he had not remained loyal. It was his test, much like Frodo's offering the Ring to Galadriel. He passed, and it's possible that he entreated Eru to grant him the power he would need to accomplish his task (in light of the appearance of things mightier than mere Orcs and Trolls).
I think it is likely that when a being is incarnated (rather than clothed), they are essentially 'reborn' (the quote above, as well as yours, Yaish, supports this theory), instead of just assuming a physical form. Morgoth is an exception to this, possibly because he gradually became incarnate through his abuse of power, rather than simply being incarnated as the Istari were.
The memory of their former existence seems to return gradually, but I doubt this would affect their native strength of spirit -- which, again, I say is limited by their own will to obey the Powers. I think it is evident that Saruman eschewed this moral restraint, which is why he appeared more powerful than Gandalf for so long. Cirdan is said to have 'perceived in Olorin the greatest spirit'.
That's it for now. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]
[ February 11, 2002: Message edited by: obloquy ]