Living in Increase (Part 5) - Increase in FaithSample

Wonderful Counselor

Our theme verse for the week we introduced yesterday is Isaiah 9:6. Among the four names it presents for Jesus; the first is “Wonderful Counselor.” To understand how this phrase relates to God’s character, we will look at the two words separately and together.

The word “Wonderful” in the original language of Isaiah 9:6 means “extraordinary” or “hard to understand.” By definition, something “wonderful” or “filled with wonder” is beyond our comprehension. It is out of the ordinary and can be challenging to understand. Even so, we are often awe-struck and amazed by wondrous things. God is wonderful because He is amazing, awesome, and beyond our comprehension.

The word “Counselor” in the original language of Isaiah 9:6 is a verb that means to “advise, consult, give counsel…[or] purpose.” Another definition of the word means to “consult together” or “deliberate.” Therefore, from these definitions, we can see God as our Counselor who gives us advice and reveals His purpose to us at the proper time. God also invites us to be a part of the conversation. In other words, God wants to communicate with us.

So, what does “Wonderful Counselor” mean regarding God’s character? As our Wonderful Counselor, God is all-knowing, and He knows what we need to hear and when we need to hear it. We may not always understand His plan, but He does, and it is our responsibility to trust in His excellent counsel. God is not distant but close, inviting us to participate in the conversation every day. God does not desire for you to dwell in confusion but instead desires for you to walk closely with Him as He reveals your next steps to you. God is our Wonderful Counselor!

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Seek God’s counsel for a decision you’re trying to make. Remember that His guidance may not make sense right now, but He has your best interest at heart!