God With Us

“He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”
 (Isaiah 9:6).

This is a very familiar verse, but I have been thinking more about its significance in my life.

Wonderful Counselor.  Wonderful is defined as amazing, marvelous, excellent.  A counselor gives advice and guidance as well as listening to cares and concerns. Jesus is the most marvelous counselor of all.  Many times I need direction for life regarding medical decisions, financial decisions, or interpersonal relationships.  When I am discouraged, disheartened, or fearful, the Lord is there to hear my pleas and comfort my spirit.

Mighty God.  To be mighty is to be powerful, strong, and great.  The might and power of Jesus conquered sin and death.  That same power lives within me by the power of the Holy Spirit and will sustain me through any earthly pain and suffering.

Everlasting Father.  God is eternal and unchangeable.  His love and faithfulness are never ending.  He sees all, knows all, and controls all.  What comfort that brings to me in the uncertainties of life.

Prince of Peace.  Peace is an undisturbed state of mind or serenity and is something we all long for.  Ongoing health problems and the trials and turmoil of this fallen world constantly try to rob me of my peace.  Yet by putting my trust and faith in Christ, I am able to have peace under any conditions.

Matthew 1:23 also says that Jesus would be called Immanuel, meaning God with us.  That word alone brings me great comfort this Christmas season.  Regardless of my health or the chaos in this world, God is here.  He truly is with me - not in physical form as on that first Christmas Day so long ago, but in a powerful living presence within me.  A physical presence may leave me, but the Spirit of God remains with me until one day I see Him face to face.

“Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). 

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, as I rejoice in Your birth, may I also rejoice in the wonder of knowing Your presence within me.  Thank You for being my counselor, my might, my stability, and my peace.  Amen.