A Wonderful Counselor

by Tracy Gordon

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” –Isaiah 9:6

Did you know that there are 198 different names and titles for Jesus in the Bible? In Isaiah 9:6, some of the more well-known names are listed, such as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The one that has really stood out to me lately is Wonderful Counselor. As parents, my husband and I know full well how wonderful it feels when our children come to us with their struggles and innermost thoughts. The trust they have in us is such a valued treasure. When they need advice, or someone to just listen or even cry with, we want them to know their parents are always here for them.

Our Heavenly Father is no different. He longs for all of His children to call on Him, to lay their burdens at His feet, and to ask for His wisdom and guidance. It’s like He is saying, “Hello…over here…highly-qualified Counselor!” But how often do we search elsewhere for that wisdom and guidance? Maybe we call a friend, find a book, or make an appointment with a therapist. Now, please don’t hear what I am not saying…friends, books, and therapists are all amazing and extremely helpful. However, they shouldn’t be a complete substitute for the Lord and the relationship He desires with us. He needs to be included as our confidant and “go to” in good times and bad and everything in between. Often we are listening and seeking answers from everyone and anyone but God. He is inviting us to be still long enough so that in that stillness, His voice can be revealed.

Unfortunately, in today’s society it has become harder and harder to have a pleasant conversation or discussion with others because some topics have become more divisive and people are hypersensitive. It’s hard to have an opinion and peacefully share it anymore. In my opinion, good communication is at an all-time low and we just don’t hear (really listen to) each other anymore. It is heartbreaking the way this is destroying families, friendships, and leading to a rise in anxiety and depression. It’s time for us to get on our knees to the One who truly cares about us, not only for our own challenges and difficulties, but on behalf of our families, friends, church, schools, nation, and world. Jesus is always there—no appointment necessary—and He doesn’t book out two months in advance. He’s always ready to counsel us, but will we listen? I sure hope so!

Heavenly Father, please forgive us when we leave You out of our inner circle, not allowing Your wisdom and guidance to counsel us. Thank You, Lord that You are always there, eager to be our confidant and number one fan. We praise You, that although “in this world we will have trouble, we take heart knowing You have overcome the world” (John 16:33). In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.