Isaiah 43:18-21 is about God’s promise to do a new thing by bringing forth rivers in the desert and making a way in the wilderness for the chosen people to experience deliverance and redemption.
18 “Remember not the former things,
nor consider the things of old.
19 Behold, I am doing a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness
and rivers in the desert.
20 The wild beasts will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches, for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert,
21 the people whom I formed for myself
that they might declare my praise.
Setting the Scene for Isaiah 43:18-21
In Isaiah chapter 43, we find the prophet Isaiah addressing the Israelites who are in exile in Babylon. The scene is set in a humble dwelling where a group of Israelites has gathered to hear Isaiah’s message of hope and restoration from God. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow on the faces of those present. The air is heavy with the scent of incense burning in a corner, creating an atmosphere of reverence and anticipation.
Among those gathered are men and women of various ages, their faces reflecting a mix of weariness from their exile and a glimmer of hope sparked by Isaiah’s words. Some have tears in their eyes, longing for their homeland and the temple of their God. Others sit with bowed heads, deep in thought as they ponder the message being delivered. Isaiah stands in the center, his voice resonating with authority as he proclaims God’s promise to make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert for His chosen people.
As Isaiah speaks, the room seems to come alive with the promise of a new beginning, a fresh start for the Israelites who have suffered for so long. The words of hope and restoration fill the hearts of those present, stirring a sense of faith and determination to trust in God’s plan for their future. In this humble setting, surrounded by fellow exiles, Isaiah’s message of redemption and renewal brings a ray of light into their dark reality, igniting a spark of hope that will carry them through the trials that lie ahead.
What is Isaiah 43:18-21 about?
This verse emphasizes the faithfulness of God and his ability to bring about new opportunities and blessings in our lives when we trust in Him. It highlights the idea that no matter our circumstances or past mistakes, God is always ready to guide us towards a fresh start and shower us with his goodness. We open ourselves up to an abundance of blessings and new beginnings that He has in store for us by putting our trust in Him.
Do you ever feel weighed down by the mistakes of your past or the challenges of the present? This verse reminds us that God’s promise of new beginnings is always within reach when we have faith in Him. It invites us to reflect on our relationship with God and consider how we can trust Him more fully to experience the blessings and renewal He brings into our lives. So, as you journey through life’s ups and downs, remember that God is always there, ready to lead you towards new beginnings and shower you with His blessings when you trust in Him wholeheartedly.
Understanding what Isaiah 43:18-21 really means
In Isaiah 43:18-21, we find a powerful message from God to the Israelites, urging them to shift their focus from past hardships to the new things He is about to bring into their lives. The context of this passage is crucial, as it was delivered during a time of exile in Babylon, offering comfort and hope to a people in distress. God’s purpose here is clear: to encourage His people to embrace the future He has in store for them, rather than being consumed by the pains of the past.
The key phrases in these verses hold profound meanings that resonate with believers today. “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past” is a direct call to let go of past failures and sorrows, emphasizing the importance of living in the present and looking towards the future where God is actively working. “See, I am doing a new thing!” signifies God’s promise of renewal and intervention in the lives of His people, inviting them to witness and participate in His transformative work.
God’s assurance that He is “making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland” speaks volumes about His provision and guidance even in the most desolate of circumstances. This promise echoes throughout the Bible, resonating with passages like Philippians 3:13-14 and Revelation 21:5, where believers are encouraged to press on towards the future and embrace God’s promise of making all things new.
The relevance of Isaiah 43:18-21 extends to people today in various ways. It challenges us to let go of past burdens, embrace new beginnings, and find hope in the midst of challenges. By sharing personal anecdotes of individuals who have experienced God’s faithfulness in times of adversity, we see how trusting in God’s promises can lead to unexpected blessings and growth.
As we reflect on this passage, let us be encouraged by the timeless nature of God’s promises. Let us release our past to Him and open our hearts to the new things He is doing in our lives. May we find hope and renewal in His words, trusting that He is continually at work, creating pathways for us even in the most barren of circumstances.
How can we recognize and embrace God’s new work?
We can recognize and embrace God’s new work by letting go of the old ways, and being open to receive His new blessings and transformation in our lives. We should also be willing to allow Him to work in new and unexpected ways in our lives, just as God promised to do a new thing in the verse. It requires faith, trust, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones.
God’s new work often brings about growth, renewal, and restoration. We position ourselves to experience His power and grace in a fresh and meaningful way by recognizing and embracing His new work. It is a reminder that God is constantly at work in our lives, bringing about new opportunities, blessings, and miracles. Embracing His new work allows us to participate in His divine plan and walk in alignment with His purposes for our lives.
Application
Embrace the new opportunities God has for you. Let go of old struggles and walk into a brighter future. Take that leap of faith and trust in the path He has laid out for you. Will you choose to step into a new chapter, leaving behind the past and welcoming the blessings that await you?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.