Experiencing God's Presence #356

Experiencing God's Presence #356

He will be called: Wonderful Counselor . . .

Isaiah 9:6

People write to columnists for advice. They look to horoscopes and psychics for direction. They make lists of pros and cons and consult with friend after friend. They seek professional help for deep, personal issues. Many of the ways we seek counsel are valid and scriptural; many are not. But one thing is clear: we search for the right perspectives and want to know which way to go.

Finite beings with limited knowledge and the scars of a fallen nature need counsel. In God’s Presence, we can receive it. Jesus is called Wonderful Counselor, and He calls His own Spirit a Counselor and Comforter. On every page of Scripture, God is reaching out with words of knowledge and wisdom for His people. He has given us much more than an instruction manual; He has given us a guide. He talks us through our dilemmas, gives us perspective on our problems, and leads us in the way we should go.

The Counselor is one of the faces of Immanuel. God is with us not simply to put His arms around us for comfort and encouragement, but also to give us concrete guidance and counsel in the deepest issues of our lives. Discerning that counsel can be a process, but it isn’t a shot in the dark. It’s guaranteed. While the world relies on human wisdom, we are given the mind of Christ. He gives us revelation, He opens and shuts doors of opportunity, He guides our steps even when we aren’t aware of it, and He moves in response to our prayers. In the disorienting events of life, we are never left alone. The Counselor is more than willing to lead.

Lord, as I sit in Your Presence today, make my direction clear. Guide my steps, manage my open and shut doors, impart Your perspective, give me wisdom from above. Give me a heart that understands, then help me live from my heart. Counsel me clearly.