Isaiah 43:19

Isaiah 43:19 (KJV) says:

“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.”

Historical Context:The book of Isaiah is attributed to the prophet Isaiah, who prophesied in the 8th century BCE. At this time, the Israelites were divided into the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Isaiah primarily spoke to the kingdom of Judah, warning them of impending judgment and calling them to repentance.

• The Promised "New Thing":

In Isaiah 43:19, God speaks through the prophet Isaiah, bringing a message of hope and restoration to the Israelites. The verse begins with the word "Behold," emphasizing the significance and attention that should be given to what God is about to say. God declares that He is about to do a "new thing." This "new thing" refers to a divine intervention, an act of God that will bring about transformation and change.

God’s Sovereign Power:The verse continues, stating that this new thing is about to "spring forth." The language used here suggests an unexpected and sudden action initiated by God. It highlights His sovereignty and the fact that He has complete control over the circumstances of His people. No matter how challenging or impossible the situation may appear, God has the power to bring about a change.

Recognition and Perception:God then poses a question to the people: "Shall ye not know it?" This question implies that the Israelites have a responsibility to recognize and acknowledge the new thing that God is doing. It implies that God’s work may go unnoticed or unappreciated if His people are not attentive or discerning.

Restoration and Provision:The verse concludes with the imagery of God making "a way in the wilderness" and "rivers in the desert." These phrases represent God’s ability to provide and sustain His people even in the most desolate and challenging circumstances. The wilderness and desert symbolize places of barrenness, isolation, and hardship. But God promises to make a way, to provide streams of water in these dry places, symbolizing His provision, guidance, and restoration.

Application to our lives:

• While the immediate context of Isaiah 43:19 was directed toward the people of Judah, this verse still holds spiritual significance for believers today. It reminds us that God is a God of new beginnings and transformations. He has the power to change our circumstances, provide for our needs, and bring restoration to our lives. It also emphasizes the importance of being attentive and perceptive to God’s work around us, recognizing His hand at work and having faith in His power to bring about change.

Overall, Isaiah 43:19 encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty, recognize His work, and have faith in His ability to bring about new things in our lives, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.