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Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me. Isaiah 6:8 KJV

It is very easy to look at today's extract and seek to respond in the same way. We know God is looking for men He can use and we also want to be used by God, so we pray it and confess it: 'Lord, here I am. Send me'. Before Isaiah here could say the words of today's extract, let's examine some of the things he had to go through.

First, there had to be a clear vision of the One who calls men to himself and commissions them for assignments. If you do not know who is calling you, how do you respond in the right way, and how do you keep sane when everything around you is falling to pieces? The only way you can hold on when you do not even understand what's going on around you is being sure and certain of the One whose call you heard.

Secondly, there has to be a cleansing. God does NOT use dirty vessels. Yes, He will take them, but before He can use, He has got to purify. Tied to that cleansing is an admission of my own unworthiness. If I do not admit I need help, how does God help me? If I feel self-sufficient, how can God reach out and work in and on me? If I will be all He had created me to be, I have got to align with His expectations.

Thirdly, then comes the specific hearing. I have got to wait for God to call and commission and send out. With a new master comes new assignments, priorities and pursuits. It can't be the same old story anymore. God is always calling out; He does not force Himself on anyone. All who will respond to his call must know what they are getting into. It is NOT a life of earthly convenience and comfort, but a call to Holiness and righteousness.

If God calls, He will supply grace and strength to remain faithful. If you are struggling for identity and direction, go back to God. He alone can sustain whatever He ordains. If it is from Him, it cannot die or go to waste. Like Isaiah, does God know you are available, or does He have to make you very uncomfortable for Him to get your attention? Does sin need to be dealt with so you can hear God clearly? You need to take the right steps now before it is too late. Nobody is promised forever this side of eternity. His time of favour is here.