Wonderful Counselor
For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
My introduction to Handel’s Hallelujah began in 9th grade chorus. To say I liked it is an understatement—I loved it then, and I still do today. At 14, I was captivated by the alternating vocal lines, rising to a grand, unified Ha‑le‑lu‑jah!
Decades later, I remain just as awestruck. Yet my appreciation now is not only for the masterpiece itself, but even more for its bold and joyful declaration of the Messiah—a truth first spoken nearly 700 years before Jesus’ birth by the prophet Isaiah.
Hope in Dark Times
You might think, based on Handel’s jubilant chorus, that Isaiah’s prophecy was inspired by joy—yet nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, when Isaiah delivered these words, the people of God were greatly distressed. Into this dark time, God sent His prophet with a message of hope: a child would be born who would be, among many glorious titles, the Wonderful Counselor.
The good news is that this same promise remains today, as people in every generation face uncertainty. And it is precisely for this reason we desperately need the counsel of Jesus, who is in fact the Wonderful Counselor. To fully grasp what this means for us, we need to break down the meaning of this title. Let’s begin with Wonderful…
Jesus is Wonderful
The Hebrew word pele’ means “extraordinary, beyond comprehension, miraculous.” Jesus is not ordinary; He is extraordinary. His works, wisdom, and presence inspire reverence. He calms storms, walks on water, heals the sick, and restores the broken. He is the Word of God, the Son of God, and our soon‑coming King.
To know Jesus is to stand in wonder for He is truly Wonderful. He is worthy of our awe and every hallelujah our hearts can sing.
Jesus is Counselor
Just as knowing Jesus as Wonderful inspires awe, acknowledging Him as Counselor assures us of His guidance. The Hebrew word yo’etz means “to advise, to give guidance.” As counselor, Jesus listens, understands, and faithfully leads. His wisdom is flawless, His direction trustworthy. Unlike human counsel, His counsel never falters or fails.
To know Jesus as counselor is to walk with the all‑wise God who guides our steps and leads us in unfailing truth.
Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor
It would be enough if Jesus were wonderful—He is. It would be a blessing if He were counselor—He is. But how much better that He is also our Wonderful Counselor.
The Hebrew phrase pele’ yo’etz means “a wonder of a counselor.” His counsel is not only wise but miraculous. He is our Guide, providing extraordinary solutions to everyday dilemmas. His wisdom is supernatural, His mercy unfailing, His authority matchless.
To know Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor is to trust in the One who leads with flawless counsel, worthy of our trust, devotion, and reverence.
My friend, the same promise Isaiah spoke long ago remains true for us today. Jesus is not distant. He is Emmanuel—God with us—ready to guide, counsel, direct, and lead. Because of this, we can face times of uncertainty fearlessly, faithfully, and confidently. Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor, is with us! So today, take time to consider the areas of your life where you need counsel. Then, by an act of faith, lean into the wisdom available in Jesus. Jesus who is Wonderful, Jesus who is Counselor, and Jesus who now and forever will be our Wonderful Counselor.
Pray
Lord Jesus, I am so grateful that You are my Wonderful Counselor. Thank You for inviting me to trust You with every part of my life. When I am afraid, confused, or uncertain, lead me to seek Your wisdom above all else. Thank You for the counsel You provide through Your Word, in prayer, and by Your Holy Spirit. You are an awesome God, worthy of the highest and greatest praise. Amen.
Reflect
In what area/s of your life do you most need to lean into Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor?
Friends, I’d love to hear your experience! Feel free to share your responses in the comment section below, or with me and others HERE!