Friday, December 22, 2023

For to Us a Child Is Born - Pt. 1

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. (Isaiah 9:5-7 ESV).

 

As we edge nearer to Christmas Day, I thought it would be a great encouragement for us to look at the four names the Prophet Isaiah is given for Jesus. In our reading today he says, “…to us a son is given… his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” We’ll take each of these in turn over the next four days.

 

To face life’s questions and problems alone only adds to our struggle and pain. But where can we turn? Thankfully, many of us have close friends or family who listen and offer words of wisdom. These confidants offer a helpful perspective and can guide our thinking. But sadly, many others are not so blessed. And even the best counselors cannot always be there. What’s more, even their wisdom is limited.

 

Isaiah reminds us of God’s gift of Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor. In his divinity he is all knowing. In his humanity, he understands. When we are tempted to cry, “But you don’t know what I am going through!” we need to know that Jesus has walked in our human weakness. He faced temptation, pain, loss, betrayal, and even death for our sake. He knows, cares, and understands.

 

By coming to live with us in our world, Jesus has shown the depth of his love. And, as God, he has the power to accomplish his purposes. Reigning now in heaven, he is both praying for his people and moving time and space toward the full coming of his kingdom.

 

He is the Wonderful Counselor. Come to him for direction and counsel. Talk to him honestly, and humbly seek his guidance. Listen to the Scripture, for all the treasures of divine wisdom and knowledge are found in His words there. He is truly a Wonder of a Counselor!

  

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