Main Thought
Mary, Elizabeth, and Joseph are among the people included most often when we think of our favorite individuals associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. But who was Maher-shalal-hash-baz? He was the son of Isaiah, the Old Testament prophet, born approximately 700 years before Jesus. The name "Maher-shalal-hash-baz” meant “speed to the spoil, hurry to the plunder.” It was a reminder of the distress that was near to the people of Judah, with the empire of Assyria lurking nearby. Distress may be near to us too, and it can make the world seem dark. Yet light shines brightest against a backdrop of darkness. Isaiah foretold the coming of the Messiah, God’s Son, as a part of the same prophecy in which Maher-shalal-hash-baz was named. The Son of God came to be the light that we need: whether that be as our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, or Prince of Peace. If we want to experience Jesus in these ways, then His leadership must increase in our lives.
Main Passages
3 And I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and bore a son. Then the Lord said to me, “Call his name Maher-shalal-hash-baz; 4 for before the boy knows how to cry ‘My father’ or ‘My mother,’ the wealth of Damascus and the spoil of Samaria will be carried away before the king of Assyria.”
- Isaiah 8:3-4
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.
- Isaiah 9:2
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
- Isaiah 9:6-7
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Which of the four names (which represents roles and/or attributes) of the Messiah stands out most to you: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, or Prince of Peace? Why?
What might it look like for the government, or leadership, of Jesus to increase in your life? In other words, how can you follow His Word or His will?