God of New Beginnings
New things ahead – this thrilling promise from Isaiah 43:19 shatters our limitations and refreshes our expectations. Spoken to Israelites in exile, these words reveal a God who specializes in doing the unexpected for His people. When we feel stuck in life’s wilderness, God whispers this eternal truth: your story isn’t over yet.
“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 43:19)
This powerful declaration reveals three transformative truths:
- Divine Initiative
God takes the first step – “I am doing” – even when we’re unaware. - Unexpected Provision
He creates resources (streams) where none naturally exist. - Purposeful Pathways
God’s “way” often appears where we see only dead ends.
The Hebrew verb for “doing” (עֹשֶׂה) indicates ongoing, creative action – the same word used in Genesis for God’s work of creation.
Recognizing God’s New Work
Isaiah delivered this message to:
• A nation facing Babylonian captivity
• People who felt abandoned by God
• Those tempted to dwell on past miracles
This context teaches us how to perceive God’s new things:
Beyond Nostalgia
Don’t just remember the Exodus; expect fresh deliverance.
Through Spiritual Eyes
The new thing often starts invisibly before manifesting.
In Barren Places
God’s best work happens in our most unlikely circumstances.
Modern applications include:
• Career transitions
• Healing journeys
• Spiritual renewal
• Relational restoration
Warning: New things often require releasing old mindsets and comforts.
Preparing for God’s New Things Ahead
- Cultivate Expectancy
Ask daily: “Lord, help me perceive what You’re doing.” - Release the Past
Don’t let previous experiences limit your expectations. - Embrace Discomfort
New things often begin in unfamiliar territory. - Document the Journey
Record signs of God’s emerging work.
Reflection Questions:
- Where in my life do I need to believe for “new things”?
- How might God be working differently than I expect?
- What wilderness places might become sites of miracles?
Prayer:
Father of new beginnings, open my eyes to see Your fresh work around me. Give me courage to leave familiar territory for Your new things. Help me trust You in the wilderness, knowing You’re preparing streams in my desert. Make me sensitive to Your moving today. Amen.
