Isaiah 9:6

“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.”

What an iconic verse for believers! This verse is a prophetic word given by the prophet Isaiah to Israel which foretold of the arrival of Jesus generations before He was born. Isaiah 9:6 is one of those verses that confirm the Word of God is true and accurate due to the details provided regarding the Messiah. Pretty much everyone who has been a Christian for any amount of time can quote this verse. That’s how well known it is.

But have you ever read the scriptures surrounding this one single verse? I mean, I’ve read the whole chapter many times, but I never paid any attention to what the other verses are saying….that is until today…and it’s powerful!

In Isaiah chapter 8, Isaiah is warning the nation of Israel about an Assyrian invasion that is coming, an invasion caused by their own sin and disobedience. He warns them not to play victim to this attack because their behavior and heart condition toward God is basically what will cause it. He goes on to say all the things that are going to happen and how they should persevere and grow in the situation. Then, Isaiah chapter 9 begins…and the promises begin…

The time of darkness and despair will not go on forever.

The people who walk in darkness will see a great light.

There will be enlargement and rejoicing.

The yoke of their slavery will be broken and the heavy burden will be lifted from their shoulders.

The oppressor’s rod will be broken.

All the garments of the warrior, the blood soaked uniforms will be burned in the fire. (They will exchange the spirit of heaviness for garments of praise! Praise is the fuel for the moving of the Holy Spirit!)

Then comes verse 6…why and how are these promises fulfilled? For unto us a child is born…!” It’s because of Jesus!

Jesus brings us out of darkness and despair and into His marvelous, glorious light! He breaks the chains of sin and oppression in our lives! It’s ALL about Jesus and what He’s done for us!

Have you surrendered your life to Jesus completely? Is He your Savior and your LORD? He came for you to have abundant life, free from sin and all the ways the enemy oppresses. In Him, you can be free! You can have joy and peace! Surrender your life and heart to Him today!

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your promises. I believe You came to redeem me, set me free and to live in my heart. I turn away from all the behaviors and mindsets that separate me from You and I give you my whole heart and my whole life. I thank You for drawing me to You today and I surrender to You and the great plans You have for my life. You are truly Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and my Prince of Peace!

There are two songs we’ve been singing at our church with the words of this verse as the lyrics. Such powerful declarations of who Jesus is! I have posted the links below. Let them be the soundtrack of this Christmas season!