God's Wonderful Counsel Over All Things

The Lord of hosts is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working (Isaiah 28:29). Consider God's presidency over all things in four dimensions.

First, the Bible itself—ancient, obscure in places, yet bold in challenging geologist and astronomer alike. The mysteries of doctrine—the Trinity, the Incarnation, the future life—assume a tone of authority over our convictions. The thoughts of the Bible are God's thoughts.

Second, the redemption of Christ is too vast and marvellous to be understood without this illuminating truth. We act upon human feelings through judgment, or upon judgment through sensibilities, yet how feebly we work compared to the royal, inspiring Spirit of God.

Third, God's counsel appears wonderful in the method and development of providence. Coleridge speaks fitly of "the miracle of Christendom," for the tendency of society unilluminated by the Gospel has ever been downward. Yet if Elohim stands behind all movements of history, there is no room for discouragement. At important crises He will interfere, putting forth silent forces—perhaps—but terrific in energy.

Fourth, God's counsel shines in the redemptive system itself. Reconciliation originates with the offended party—with Adonai Himself, infinitely superior to the offender, seeking reconciliation with those who have broken covenant. This is the wonderfulness of God's counsel: infinite power bent toward human restoration.