What Does “Wonderful Counselor” Mean?

By Melissa McLaughlin

Their soft faces glowed, and small fingers pointed. Delighted squeals echoed in our car as we drove through the night. “Look at that house!” “Over here’s another one!”

I remember the awe our children expressed each year as lights twinkled in the windows, and Christmas carols hummed over the hustle and bustle. For one shining moment, all eyes looked to Jesus.

As Christians, we celebrate Advent to remember Christ’s first coming. He graced the earth as a newborn babe, fully God and fully man. At the same time, we also long for the next Advent, His second coming, when He will return robed in glorious majesty.

One of my favorite Scripture passages to read during Advent is Isaiah 9:6 (ESV) – For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Wonderful Counselor. This sounds striking, but what do these words mean?

What Does Wonderful Counselor Mean?

The Hebrew word for “wonderful counselor” is pele-yoez. The first term (pele) means “a miracle, a marvel, a wonder” which indicates “something extraordinary, incomprehensible, inexplicable.” The second term (yoez) means “to advise, counsel, devise, purpose.” (Quote from Christianity.com)

This prophetically describes Christ as the marvelous Messiah and wise King.

Jesus is a wonder. He exists eternally as part of the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Yet, Christ wrapped Himself in a cloak of humanity and walked the earth He created to redeem the people He loved. With blood, sweat, and tears pouring down, Jesus conquered evil and death, then arose in triumphant victory.

Jesus is incomprehensible and extraordinary in power, humility, sacrifice, and victory. He exacted absolute justice and righteousness while simultaneously extending mercy and grace. There is no one else like Jesus.

Jesus is also our wise King, ruling with tenderness, compassion, wisdom, and truth. As we remember His gentle touch and clear words with the woman caught in adultery and her accusers, we see an all-wise King. Willing to stand up and willing to bend low.

Likewise, when we are caught in our own web of sin, Jesus speaks to us with divine wisdom, truth, and love.

Like the astonished wonder that abounds from children who gaze at the sparkling Christmas lights, let us marvel with heartfelt awe at our wonderful Savior.

He came for us. The One who formed the vast galaxies and positioned each shimmering star.

With childlike faith, we reach for the edges of His unfathomably great love. For the Light of the world outshines our sin. Then, through heavenly counsel and the indwelling Spirit, Jesus illuminates our way and radiates through us.

I am overwhelmed at the thought. How amazing is our Savior?

Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor.

What Scriptures do you love to read during Advent?

Big News For My Readers!

Because of Jesus, I have some other wonderful news to share. I just received word from CLC Publications that my book, The Whole Bible Devotional, will be released in late December or early January! I am humbled and blessed to be used by God in this endeavor.

Below is a copy of the front cover. I am thrilled with this stunning design!

Please join me in prayer—that God will be glorified and His people will be blessed through this book.

My next step is to assemble a book launch team. The book launch team will have 3 tasks:

1.Purchase and read the book.

2.Leave an honest review. (I hope the book is a blessing!)

3.Help me spread the word by sharing on social media, via email, or by telling a friend.

If you would like to participate in my book launch team, please reply in the comments. I would be so honored to have your help and support!

However, the most important thing you can do is to pray for God to accomplish His purposes through this book and for me to stay close to Christ and follow His leading in every way.

Thank you all, for your kind support and encouragement of my writing through the years. It has not always been easy, but you have spurred me on in the Lord—to keep writing for Jesus. I thank God for each of you. The body of Christ is beautiful to behold. To God be the glory!