FROM THE DAWGHOUSE…
The Significance of “Wonderful Counselor”
The words of Isaiah 9:6 resound with profound beauty and hope, especially during the Advent season. “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder. And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Each title ascribed to the coming Messiah reflects an aspect of His divine mission. Over the next few weeks, we’re going to address each, starting with the title “Wonderful Counselor”, which holds particular significance for believers, offering a glimpse into the depth of Christ’s wisdom, care, and guidance.
The Hebrew word translated as “wonderful” is pele, which conveys something extraordinary, miraculous, or beyond human comprehension. It describes Christ as one who is not just good or great but awe-inspiring in His being and works. For believers, this means that Jesus is not limited by human constraints or understanding. His counsel comes from the infinite mind of God, capable of providing solutions, peace, and wisdom that surpass our finite imaginations.
The term “counselor” points to one who guides, advises, and leads with wisdom. Unlike earthly counselors who may be limited by their understanding or biases, Jesus is the perfect counselor. He knows our innermost thoughts and needs, offering advice that is always aligned with truth and righteousness. Through His Word and the Holy Spirit, He speaks directly to the hearts of His people, guiding them in paths of righteousness.
In John 14:26, Jesus assures believers that the Holy Spirit, sent in His name, will teach and remind them of His words. This role of guiding and counseling continues, making His wisdom accessible to all who seek it.
So, what does all this mean for the men of Forge?
It means we can turn to Jesus in every situation, trusting that His counsel is flawless. Whether facing life’s uncertainties or wrestling with sin, He offers clarity and direction.
It means that as a Wonderful Counselor, Jesus provides comfort in moments of sorrow and distress. His words in Matthew 11:28, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest,” remind us that His counsel brings peace to troubled hearts.
It means that to fully embrace Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor, the men of Forge must cultivate a habit of listening to His voice. This means spending time in prayer, meditating on Scripture, and trusting His guidance even when it defies human logic.
In a world filled with conflicting advice and fleeting wisdom, the Wonderful Counselor stands as a beacon of eternal truth. His guidance is not only perfect but also deeply personal. He knows us better than we know ourselves and leads us with compassion and love.
For all of us at Forge who believe in Jesus Christ, the title “Wonderful Counselor” is a daily reminder of His care and involvement in our lives. It is an invitation to seek His wisdom, trust His plans, and walk confidently in His counsel, knowing that it is always wonderful beyond measure.
To the Kingdom
Joe Bouch
