Small Wonder: A Christmas Devotional JourneySample

Names fit for a King

Often, in South Asian cultures, new monarchs were given ‘throne names’ to celebrate their reign and to describe their attributes. For example, Prince Khurram, the builder of the Taj Mahal, was given the throne name Shah Jahan – or ‘King of the World’. Today, we celebrate that Jesus, the true King of the World, is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

We often think of the name ‘Wonderful Counsellor’ (Isaiah 9:6) as a description of what Jesus offers to us. There is, of course, a much-needed truth to that. Whatever we’re facing today, at work, at home, with family, or elsewhere, we can call on His counsel, advice, and promise to come alongside us. His counsel won’t just be adequate – it will be wonderful.

But this name for Jesus is firstly a description of His ability to reign as King. Much like today, kings in Isaiah’s time needed wise counsellors to stand alongside them in the court and advise on how they should rule. Plenty of these ‘wise counsellors’ weren’t so wise and encouraged their leaders to make disastrous decisions! But Jesus already possesses the wisdom He needs to reign – and to do so wonderfully.

Today, we give thanks that our Saviour offers wonderful counsel to us through His Spirit, His word, and His people – and that He also reigns as the Wonderful Counsellor.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the hope announced throughout today’s reading, for the light and joy that is promised. Thank You that You reign as the Wonderful Counsellor, and that I can call on Your wonderful counsel. I take a moment now to ask for Your guidance and wisdom on the things I’m facing today.