As we have been celebrating the holiday season, it is appropriate that we focus our attention of some of the names and characteristics of the one who came to bear our sins. I will be taking the abbreviated devotions from the Kingdom Promise book entitled God Is.
Isaiah prophesied—“He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace” (Isa. 9:6). Isaiah penned this verse during dark days of Israel’s history when the people were in great need of a “wonderful counselor.” The prophet swept back the clouds of gloom, promising that those “walking in darkness” would see “a great light.”
The cause of celebration would be the birth of a child. But this would be no ordinary child. The breadth of what is said about Him so far exceeds human boundaries, even the most profound skeptic would be hard pressed to argue that the prophet had an earthly prince in mind. He must have been looking forward to the day when Messiah would come.
Isaiah saw the child with the royal symbol of government flowing from His shoulders. He was so glorious that one name proved insufficient to describe Him. Thus we find five descriptive titles, including “counselor.” In chapter eleven, verse 2, the prophet indicates that the Spirit of counsel and strength will rest on Him. Just look at Jesus as He counsels the woman taken in adultery or the woman at the well.
You have a wonderful counselor, but to benefit from His counsel with must hear and heed His word. When you read the word of the counselor, do you say “yes” without reservation?
Prayer: Father, thank you for the counsel of Your word. Give me ears to hear and a heart to obey.