What is the meaning of Isaiah 28:6? a spirit of justice Isaiah declares that the LORD will be “a spirit of justice.” Justice is not merely an abstract principle; it is God Himself actively breathing fairness, wisdom, and moral clarity into human affairs. Scripture shows this pattern repeatedly: “He has told you, O man, what is good—and what does the LORD require of you but to act justly” (Micah 6:8). When the Spirit of the LORD came upon leaders like Othniel (Judges 3:10) or Jehoshaphat’s judges (2 Chronicles 19:6-7), impartial decisions followed. The same Spirit who empowered Solomon to discern rightly (1 Kings 3:28) is promised here to steady Israel’s courts once more. to him who sits in judgment The phrase pinpoints those occupying the bench or city gate, places where legal matters were settled (Ruth 4:1; Proverbs 31:23). God pledges to supply every righteous judge with discernment that aligns with His own character. Psalm 72:1-2 pictures this: “Grant the king Your justice, O God…may he judge Your people with righteousness.” In Isaiah’s context, corrupt leaders had erred (Isaiah 28:7), yet the Lord offers real, literal intervention—He Himself becoming their resource for upright verdicts. a strength The second half of verse 6 shifts from courts to combat: the LORD is “a strength.” The word evokes steady endurance and victorious power. David sang, “The LORD is my strength and my shield” (Psalm 28:7); Isaiah echoes that assurance. The same divine might that split the Red Sea (Exodus 15:2) stands ready to fortify His people when danger presses in. to those who repel the onslaught at the gate City gates were the first target in an invasion (2 Samuel 18:24). Defenders needed courage, skill, and stamina. Here God pledges to be the literal backbone of every soldier on the wall. Nehemiah encouraged his builders in similar language: “Do not be afraid…remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight” (Nehemiah 4:14). Ultimately, Christ embodies this promise—He is the conquering King who “judges and wages war” (Revelation 19:11-16), ensuring that no enemy prevails against His people (Matthew 16:18). summary Isaiah 28:6 assures God’s people that He personally steps in when leadership and safety hang in the balance. He gifts judges with His own sense of right and wrong, and He girds warriors with supernatural might. Whether decisions in the courtroom or battles at the city gate, the Lord Himself is both wisdom and power for all who trust Him. |