A Hope Eternal - Advent DevotionalSample

How amazing to consider that the Advent of our Savior was so beautifully and accurately described by the prophet Isaiah centuries before the birth of Christ. Unto us would be born a Child with a body of flesh and blood that would one day be broken and poured out for us. The only begotten and beloved Son of God was given to us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). And the government would be upon His shoulder, which once carried a cross to pay the terrible price for our sin.

His name is truly Wonderful, for when we believe in Jesus, we have life in His name (John 20:31). We can trust Him as our Counselor, for as 1 Corinthians 1:24 tells us, Christ is the very wisdom of God. As our Counselor and Good Shepherd, the Lord leads us to green pastures and still waters, guiding us in the paths of righteousness, as David wrote in Psalm 23. We stand in awe of our Mighty God, who spoke the universe into being as the Word of God. And how incredible to realize that He empowers us with His Word and His Spirit today! He is One with the Everlasting Father, who welcomes us into His eternal presence because of the grace and mercy Christ has freely bestowed upon us. Indeed, He is the Prince of Peace—the mediator between God and humankind. He is both the High Priest and sacrificial Lamb of God, who willingly offered His life out of love for us. Isaiah 53:5 says, “The chastisement for our peace was upon Him.”

So, if you’re fearful or anxious, turn to Jesus, for Philippians 4:7 promises, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”. As our Great High Priest, Jesus pronounces the blessing of God upon us: “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26).

Prayer

Jesus, in this Advent, come to our hearts and be born anew. Be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Lead us beside still waters, make us lie down in Your green pastures, and restore our souls. Be our High Priest and bless us and keep us. Lift Your countenance upon us and be gracious toward us. Cause Your face to shine upon us and give us Your peace.

Gordon Robertson, J.D., serves as CEO of the Christian Broadcasting Network and host of the 700 Club.