When the Bible repeats something, it’s nudging us to pay attention. Repetition is one of the main ways the biblical writers—especially in the Old Testament—emphasize something.

In today’s passage of Isaiah 9:1-7, look at all the repetition of joy or rejoicing in verse 3: “You have enlarged the nation and increased its joy. The people have rejoiced before you as they rejoice at harvest time and as they rejoice when dividing spoils.”

That is a lot of joy. Where does it come from?

The next three verses each start with “for,” which is acting like “because.” We rejoice because God has shattered the tools of oppression (v. 4) and burned the tools of death and war (v. 5). And how has he done that? Through our Savior, God’s Son, the Prince of Peace.

Take a minute to meditate on each of the titles in Isaiah 9:6.

• Wonderful Counselor: He is wise and true when you do not know which way to go.
• Mighty God: He is ruling over every circumstance in your life and in the world.
• Eternal Father: His nearness does not end after Christmas. He pulls you into his family forever.
• Prince of Peace: He is resplendent and good, reigning in peace.