The Holy Spirit is not merely a mystical presence but the very breath, wisdom, and power of God working in and through believers. Isaiah 11:2 offers one of the clearest biblical outlines of the Holy Spirit's attributes, describing seven distinct manifestations—often called the seven powers or spirits of the Holy Spirit. These powers were fully embodied in Jesus Christ and are given to believers to live godly and victorious lives. Isaiah 11:2 (KJV) " And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. " Let’s look at each power in detail: 1. The Spirit of the Lord This is the foundational presence of the Holy Spirit—the sovereign power of God that rests upon a person for divine assignment. It represents God’s anointing, approval, and presence. ...
"Whom Shall I Send, and Who Will Go for Us?" – Meaning and Interpretation
The saying “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” comes from Isaiah 6:8 in the Bible. It is a powerful moment in which God calls for a messenger, and the prophet Isaiah responds, "Here am I. Send me!" This passage has deep spiritual and practical significance, revealing aspects of God’s nature, human responsibility, and divine calling.
1. The Context of Isaiah 6:8
Isaiah 6 describes a vision in which the prophet Isaiah sees the Lord seated on a throne, surrounded by angels (seraphim) who proclaim, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory” (Isaiah 6:3). Overwhelmed by the majesty and holiness of God, Isaiah realizes his sinfulness and exclaims: “Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty” (Isaiah 6:5).
In response, one of the seraphim touches Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal from the altar, symbolizing his cleansing and purification. Only after this moment of purification does Isaiah hear God’s voice asking, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?"
This question is not directed at Isaiah alone but is an open invitation for anyone willing to step forward and serve. Isaiah, now purified and prepared, eagerly responds, "Here am I. Send me!"
2. Meaning:
A. God’s Call for a Messenger
The question, "Whom shall I send?", highlights God’s desire to work through human beings. While He is all-powerful, He chooses to send people as His representatives to fulfill His will on earth. This is consistent throughout the Bible, as seen with Moses (Exodus 3), Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1), and the disciples of Jesus (Matthew 28:19-20).
B. An Invitation, Not a Command
God does not force Isaiah into service. Instead, He asks, allowing for a voluntary response. This shows that serving God is not about obligation but about a willing heart.
C. "Who Will Go for Us?" – A Reference to the Trinity
The saying "for us" is significant. Some scholars interpret this as a reference to the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—indicating a divine discussion within the Godhead. This aligns with other plural references in Genesis 1:26 ("Let us make man in our image").
3. Isaiah’s Response – "Here Am I, Send Me"
Isaiah’s willingness to serve is remarkable. Despite recognizing his unworthiness, he does not hesitate to respond. This demonstrates key principles about divine calling:
A. God Prepares Those He Calls
Isaiah’s cleansing shows that before God sends someone, He purifies and equips them. No one is too sinful or unworthy if they are willing to be transformed by God.
B. Readiness to Obey
Isaiah does not ask for details about the mission; he simply trusts God. This is a lesson in faith and surrender—when God calls, our response should be obedience, even when we do not fully understand His plan.
C. God Calls the Willing, Not Just the Qualified
Isaiah was not perfect, yet God chose him. This principle is seen throughout the Bible—God often uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes.
4. Application for Today
The question "Whom shall I send?" is still relevant today. God continues to seek people who are willing to serve Him in different ways—whether in ministry, leadership, or daily life.
A. Personal Calling
Each person has a unique purpose. Some may be called to preach, others to serve in their community, workplaces, or families. The key is being open to God’s direction and saying, "Here am I. Send me."
B. Leadership and Responsibility
Good leaders respond to challenges with willingness and courage. Whether in spiritual or secular leadership, the attitude of Isaiah—humility, readiness, and trust in God—is essential.
C. Missions and Evangelism
This passage has inspired many missionaries throughout history. It reminds believers of their responsibility to share God’s message, just as Isaiah did.
Isaiah 6:8 is a powerful example of how God calls, cleanses, and commissions His people. The question "Whom shall I send?" is an invitation to all, and Isaiah’s response—"Here am I. Send me!"—is a model of faith, obedience, and readiness. Today, this call still echoes, asking: Are you willing to go where God sends you?
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