ISAIAH 9:6

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

TO PONDER

At various points in my life I have been called by various nicknames. With a surname like 'von Stanke' you might imagine what some of them were.

We seem to have a thing for assigning nicknames to people in Australia. The few international people I have met who have spent time living in Australia have found it a fascinating phenomenon. Sometimes an Aussie nickname is simple and easy to understand its origins. But the better you know a person, the more likely the nickname you use will be attached to some unique story or heroic (or foolish) deed that has somehow become almost folklore among your group of friends, so that no one knows how you got that name unless they were there when that thing happened.

Jesus has been given many names and titles in the Bible. Some are easy to understand, others come to make more sense the longer we walk with Jesus. All of them describe something of his character, his mission, purpose, or identity. It's not uncommon for you to feel particularly drawn to one as the primary way you relate to him. If your life feels particularly chaotic, you might really appreciate access to the 'Prince of Peace'. Likewise, if you're really struggling with an important life decision, then taking to the 'Wonderful Counsellor' for some advice and counsel could be just what you need.

The great thing about Jesus having so many names is that it reminds us that Jesus can be the solution to so many of our problems and that he can help us in every circumstance, and if you can't thing of a specific name to fit, 'Might God' probably covers it don't you think?

PRAYER: Everlasting Father, thank you for revealing so much of yourself to us through Jesus and all the names and titles you have used to describe yourself to us. Help me to remember that you are so much more than just 'God' and that you are ready to meet me with exactly what I need in every situation and circumstance. Thank you for everything that you are and all that you have done. Amen

Today's devotion written by Mathew von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle