Notice the New Thing - iBelieve Truth - January 4, 2024

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV) 

Recently, I visited Colonial Williamsburg – a place that brings America’s colonial history to life. The mission of this living museum is “that the future may learn from the past”. It emphasizes the importance of drawing wisdom from what happened in the past to guide future endeavors. I love learning about history to help me gain a greater perspective on God’s work, and consider what the past can teach me now about how to move into the future well. 

Reflecting on the past and seeking to learn from it is a crucial aspect of spiritual growth. We shouldn’t forget our past and erase its lessons. Instead, we should remember it with discernment, reflecting with curiosity about how God has been working in our lives. By looking back, we can gain valuable insights into the consequences of certain choices, the faithfulness of God in times of trial, and the transformation that comes through God’s grace. Learning from the past allows us to avoid repeating detrimental patterns and equips us to make wiser, God-honoring decisions. It also inspires us with wonder as we recognize glimpses of God’s work. 

Isaiah 43:18-19 urges us not to dwell on the past, emphasizing the need for balance. Dwelling on past mistakes can lead to stagnation and hinder our ability to embrace the new things God has in store for us. The purpose of learning from the past is to inform our present and future actions. It’s about taking the lessons and applying them in a way that propels us forward, allowing God to work in new and transformative ways. 

These verses remind us of God’s nature as a God of new beginnings. The imagery of a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland speaks to the transformative power of God to bring life and hope into the most desolate areas of our lives. 

The call to “forget the former things” is a profound invitation to surrender the burdens of our past to God. It’s a call to release the grip of guilt, shame, and regret that we may feel about our previous mistakes. God’s forgiveness is complete, and dwelling on the past hinders our ability to experience the fullness of his grace. As we let go, we make space for God to work in our hearts and pave the way for his transformative power. 

God’s declaration of doing a new thing invites us into a journey of faith and expectation. God’s plans may differ from our own. Embracing the new thing requires a mindset of trust and a willingness to step into the unknown with confidence that God is in control. The Holy Spirit is constantly at work in our lives, orchestrating changes that align with God’s purpose and promise for our future. 

The nature imagery of God making a way in the wilderness speaks to his ability to provide guidance and direction in the midst of life’s challenges. When faced with the barren landscapes of confusion, doubt, or adversity, God promises to carve a path for us. This assurance encourages us to rely on his wisdom, acknowledging that his understanding is perfect. Trusting in God’s guidance brings a sense of peace and confidence, even in the middle of life’s uncertainties. 

The promise of streams in the wasteland is a powerful symbol of God’s ability to bring life and abundance to the desolate areas of our lives. In seasons of spiritual dryness or emotional emptiness, God offers the refreshing waters of his Spirit. The streams represent God’s provision, sustenance, and the life-giving power of his presence. As we open our hearts to God’s work, we can experience a transformation that turns the barren wastelands of our lives into fertile grounds where God’s love flows abundantly. 

Dear God, thank you for bringing new beginnings into my life. Please help me to release the grip of my past, and to surrender my mistakes and regrets to your grace. Open my eyes to perceive the new thing you’re doing in my life. God, I trust you to make a way in the wilderness of uncertainty. When I feel lost or overwhelmed, be my compass and lead me to a place of peace with you. In the areas of my life that seem barren and unproductive, I trust your promise to bring streams of life and refreshment. I embrace your new beginnings with gratitude and faith. Thank you! Amen.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Dean_Fikar

Whitney Hopler helps people discover God's wonder and experience awe. She is the author of several books, including the nonfiction books Wake Up to Wonder and Wonder Through the Year: A Daily Devotional for Every Year, and the young adult novel Dream Factory. Whitney has served as an editor at leading media organizations, including Crosswalk.com, The Salvation Army USA’s national publications, and Dotdash.com (where she produced a popular channel on angels and miracles). She currently leads the communications work at George Mason University’s Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. Connect with Whitney on her website at www.whitneyhopler.com, on Facebook, and on  X/Twitter.

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