Advent begins

A Devotional for Advent: Week One —

 Hope

You know, friend, every year when Advent rolls around, my heart slows down just a little. There’s something about this season that whispers, “Look up…hope is coming.” And isn’t that exactly what Isaiah 9:6 reminds us?“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Those aren’t just poetic words. They’re promises—God’s promises—and hope is always rooted in what He has said He will do.

When Isaiah first spoke those words, God’s people were longing for rescue. They expected a warrior king on a warhorse, ready to overthrow corrupt governments and restore their nation’s power. But God had something entirely different in mind. He promised Someone who would make all things right—just not in the way they expected. Instead of sending an army, He sent His Son.

And oh, what a Son.

Our Wonderful Counselor.- You ever have one of those days when your heart feels too heavy or your mind too full? I do. And in those moments, I remind myself—our Jesus isn’t just wise; He is wisdom. He sees what’s ahead when we don’t. He speaks through His Word with a righteousness untouched by even a shadow of error. And unlike earthly counselors, He never charges a fee, never closes His door, and never, ever says, “I’m too busy right now.” All it takes is a whispered prayer, and He’s right there. Isn’t that a comfort?

Our Mighty God.- This one always gives me chills. The tiny baby in the manger was—and is—all-powerful. He came not to win earthly battles but to defeat the greatest enemy we all face: death itself. And He didn’t need swords, shields, or soldiers. He used a wooden cross and an empty tomb. Because of Him, death has lost its sting, and we get to live forever (1 Corinthians 15:54). What kind of God does that? Only One who loves fiercely.

Our Everlasting Father- This isn’t about age or hierarchy—it’s about relationship. In Jesus, we find life that never ends, and not the kind where we simply “exist.” No, this is life in the uninterrupted presence of God. A life filled with His everlasting love, righteousness, joy, salvation, kindness, light, and a name that will never fade. Can you imagine? An everlasting paradise, prepared for us. Sometimes I can hardly wrap my mind around it, but my heart knows it’s true.

Our Prince of Peace.- And here’s the part that always humbles me…this Prince didn’t arrive in a palace. He came to a stable—messy, humble, quiet. The peace He brings isn’t fragile. It’s not dependent on circumstances or feelings. Sure, He gives peace in the storm and peace in our minds, but even deeper than that, He came to give us peace with God. That’s the kind of peace that settles into your soul and changes everything.

This week, as we light the candle of hope, I’m holding onto this truth: Every promise God made in Isaiah 9:6 was fulfilled in Jesus—and every hope we have rests safely in Him.

And friend, whatever you’re carrying today, whatever your heart is whispering or worrying over, remember this: Hope came wrapped in swaddling clothes, and He came for you.

Father, thank You for the gift of hope that You wrapped in the form of Your Son. As we enter this Advent season, quiet our hearts and help us remember who Jesus truly is—our Wonderful Counselor, our Mighty God, our Everlasting Father, and our Prince of Peace. Teach us to lean into His wisdom, trust His strength, rest in His everlasting love, and walk daily in the peace He came to give. Let hope rise within us, not because of what we see, but because of who You are and what You have promised. Draw us closer to You this week, and let our souls find their rest in the One who came for us.

In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

Everyday Devotionals ©️ Bonnie Annis