Ten Benefits Jesus Brought Us – Part 1
Ever feel like the hype of good feelings for Christmas doesn’t quite match the reality? Do you ever feel worse at Christmas time? Well, you’re not alone. Yet 500 years before Jesus’ birth, Isaiah made some very big promises about Jesus’ impact on the human soul and condition! What benefits did He actually bring us? Isaiah 9:1-7 lays them out in glorious detail. In this post, we’ll expand on the first five benefits and five more in our next post. This Christmas remember, “Forget not ALL of his benefits” Psalm 103:2!
1) Lightness
Isaiah 9:1-2 – But there will be no more gloom for her who was in anguish; in earlier times He treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt, but later on He shall make it glorious, by the way of the sea, on the other side of Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles. The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, The light will shine on them.
Life can bring gloomy times when trials take over our lives, overwhelming our emotional and physical circuits. During my battle with Stage IV metastatic melanoma cancer, the Lord’s lightness broke through tunnels of depression and confusion. The bright light of revelation of His control over circumstances strengthened me. He told me He was holding on to me when I panicked over losing my emotional grip.
2) Joy
Isaiah 9:3 – You shall multiply the nation, You shall increase their gladness; They will be glad in Your presence as with the gladness of harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.
Fortunately joy is a gift! He gifts HIS joy to fill our hearts with the gladness of His Presence. “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). So make it a habit this Christmas season to be still and sit with Him.
3) Freedom
Isaiah 9:4-5 – For You shall break the yoke of their burden and the staff on their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, as at the battle of Midian. For every boot of the booted warrior in the battle tumult, and cloak rolled in blood, will be for burning, fuel for the fire.
Life is filled with enemies: negativity, depression, demonic influence, sin and fear, just to name a few. God promises that in all these things we overcome through Him! More here from Romans 8!
4) Stability
Isaiah 9:6 – For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders;
I don’t have to tell you we live in turbulent times and our country and world seem shaky at best! Jesus is the Benevolent Dictator who will completely direct human affairs, bringing lasting peace and calm to the planet!
5) Wisdom
Isaiah 9:6b – And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor.
The Hebrew word for “wonderful” here means, “exceptional; marvelous; amazing.” We won’t find anyone more wise or willing to help! He promises not to find fault with us when we come seeking His thoughts (James 1:3). Think He can give you some good advice?
Enjoy Him this Christmas! More of His benefits coming your way next week – HERE.
Do you know “The Two Ways to Get to Heaven“?
