Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV) – “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.”
I have seen many people whose homes were destroyed by natural disasters, such as storms, mudslides, and floods. These individuals stood near their destroyed homes and spoke to reporters. When asked what they would do in the future, they replied, “I am going to rebuild.” Even when everything seems lost, there is something in people that gives them the strength to keep going. I believe this spirit and determination come from God speaking to His people in times of adversity. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God is with us and is doing something new on our behalf, even when all seems lost.
Imagine standing amidst the ruins of what was once your home, your sanctuary, destroyed by an unstoppable force of nature. In that moment of utter devastation, where does one find the strength to say, “I will rebuild”? This unyielding spirit, often witnessed in the aftermath of calamity, echoes a profound biblical truth found in the words of Isaiah.
Reflection
In the face of adversity, it’s human nature to cling to the remnants of the past, to what was familiar and comfortable. Yet, Isaiah’s words resonate with a divine directive: let go of the past and embrace God’s new work. The imagery of God creating pathways in the wilderness and bringing life-giving water to desolate places is a powerful metaphor for His restorative power in our lives. When everything seems lost, God is actively working to transform our trials into triumphs, our desolation into flourishing places.
Supporting Scriptures
Several other supporting scriptures speak to this truth, such as 2 Corinthians 5:17, Jeremiah 29:11, and Philippians 4:13. These remind us that we are new creations in Christ, that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future, and that we can do all things through Him who strengthens us.
Takeaway
- The takeaway from this message is that just as those who vow to rebuild on the ruins of their earthly homes, we are called to trust in God’s promise of renewal and restoration. It’s a call to faith, to believe in the unseen work of God, even when our current circumstances seem bleak. Our strength lies not in holding onto what was but in embracing what God is doing now and what He will do in our future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as you face life’s storms, remember the message of Isaiah: God is doing something new. He is making a way where there seems no way, bringing hope in despair. Let us not dwell on what has been lost but look forward with faith to the new things God brings forth in our lives. In every wilderness and wasteland, He creates streams of living water, pathways to His promises and purposes for us.
