Isaiah 9 Devotional

Peace on a Child's Shoulders

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

The chapter opens on people in deep darkness who see light dawn over them (9:2). Galilee, once humbled, will be honored, and the oppressor's yoke will be shattered as in the day of Midian (9:1-4). Matthew says this light dawned when Jesus began preaching in Galilee (Matthew 4:13-17). The reason for the joy is a birth. A son is given who carries the government on his shoulders, whose names include Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace, and whose rule on David's throne will keep growing without end (9:6-7).

And God's own zeal guarantees it (9:7). The hope does not depend on Israel. In fact, the rest of the chapter shows a proud people boasting that they will rebuild with finer stone and cedar (9:10), refusing to turn back to God even under discipline, while his hand stays raised in judgment (9:12-21). Peace will come because God is determined to bring it. Your hope can rest on the shoulders of that child rather than on your own.

To think about: What burden have you been carrying on your own shoulders that belongs on the shoulders of the Prince of Peace?