I was driving down the road the other day. Snowflakes were fluttering in the breeze and the Thanksgiving holiday was only days away. One of my favorite Christmas songs was playing, Michael W. Smith’s Reve du Noel.

For some reason, this song always makes me feel like Christmas. It starts out as a chorale in a manner reminiscent of the Carol of the Bells, followed by a piano interlude of Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. Then it transitions into a rhythmic, modern-style chorus based on Isaiah 9:6 and Matthew 1:23. It ends with a reprise of the clear bell-like tones of the chorale.

As I was singing along with the chorus, I found myself blessed by those treasured words, borrowed from Scripture, that describe my Savior. So, I thought I would share with you some of the thoughts that passed through my mind and heart.

Wonderful Counselor!

The truth of God’s Word has shaped my life, bringing me understanding of who He is and of who I am because Jesus is my Savior. For many years, the Holy Spirit has faithfully whispered His truth and guidance into my heart. I have not always listened, and I have not always heeded His counsel. But even when I was faithless, He remained a faithful and Wonderful Counselor.

Lord of life, Lord of all.

I lean on God and put my trust in Him because I know that, whatever may come my way, God is ultimately in charge. He is the source of life and of all that is good, and He has the final word. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the End (Rev. 1:8, 22:13).

He’s the Prince of Peace,

Jesus is the source of peace in my life. The world around me may be in chaos, but His peace doesn’t depend on my circumstances, my thoughts, or my emotions. It freely flows into my inner being when I remember to lean into Him. I am so grateful that His peace stands guard over my heart, protecting me in ways I may never be aware of (John 14:27; Phil. 4:7).

Mighty God, Holy One

My God is almighty and His very being radiates holiness. Therefore, no evil can stand before Him. As I stand in Christ, no charge brought against me can prevail, because God is the one who has justified me. Nothing in life or death, on this earth, or in the spiritual realm can separate me from His love because, as I stand in Christ, I stand in the center of the protection of His power and His holiness (Rom. 8:31-39; Eph. 2:4-7).

Emmanuel, Emmanuel!*

Jesus walks through this life beside me. And because He came to earth and lived as a human being, He understands me intimately. He understands how life can be overwhelming and confusing at times. He knows what it is to experience loss and profound sorrow. He knows pain and suffering as well as joy. Whatever comes, He is with me. He will never leave me or forsake me (Heb. 4:14-16, 13:5; Phil. 2:5-8).

I would encourage you to take a moment to listen to this song, as I did, and give thanks to the Lord for who He is in your life.

Pastor Cindy

  • Emmanuel literally means “God with us”