2023 Advent Devotional - Isaiah 9:6-7 (Day 6)

Isaiah 9:6-7 “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. 7 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.”

I recently did a Bible Study with a group of women.  It started out by asking each person to share the meaning of their name. Almost everyone in the group was surprised by the fact that the name they were given described who they were in some way.  For example, one lady  was named Barbara. Her name means barbarian or foreigner.  As it turns out , in her life, she has adopted 2 children from two different  South American countries and she and her husband became involved in an international student ministry for foreign exchange students. My name, Carla, means strong.  With God’s help, I have made it through some difficult life situations and I have learned to  indeed be strong.   The names that this child that Isaiah prophesied about in Isiah 9:6-7 tells us a lot about  him.  God made a promise to Israel that he would send a Messiah. He would be called Wonderful Counselor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.  

As Wonderful Counselor we are told that the Messiah will  have the spirit of understanding and wisdom.  He knows what needs to be done in every situation and he is able to provide what is needed.

As Almighty God he will have authority over all the earth.  He is  Holy, righteous and merciful.  He is our strong warrior and our defender.

As Everlasting Father, he loves us, protects us and provides for us for all eternity.  He cares about the details of our life and wants to be in relationship with us.

As Prince of Peace, he is Royalty.  He would rule over the line of David with righteousness and justice..  His kingdom is Eternal.   This child was sent so he could be our redeemer and so we could spend eternity with the God who loves us.  

How might your name glorify Jesus?

Heavenly Father,   Thank you for your perfect plan.  May all glory, honor and praise be yours in heaven and on earth.  Amen
By Carla Vogel