God's New Thing

On the first day of a new year we tend to look back at the events that were outstanding in the previous year. Newspapers and broadcasters have features that focus on the year in review. God did the same thing with Israel in Isaiah 43. He begins with their creation and continues with the accounting of his work in bringing them out of Egypt. In them He emphasizes his power and authority.

After reminding Israel of the past God makes an interesting statement. He says, "Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing." God promises them that He will make a "road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Basically, God was telling Israel and us that whatever may have been in the past will be surpassed by his blessings in the future. Whenever the wilderness and desert-like conditions seem to overwhelm us we need to remember this promise of God.

We also need to keep in mind God's purpose. He continues in the text to share the outcome of his actions. He says "the beats of the field will honor me... because I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. To give drink to My people, My chosen." God's new things in our life are designed to bring honor to him and satisfaction to us as his people. Later in the passage God says, "I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; And I will not remember your sins."

Truly, we have a wonderful God who has great plans for our lives in spite of our failures. Let's look forward to the days of 2008 and rejoice as God unfolds his new thing for us. Let's give him honor and realize his provision for us through every event of the new year. Happy New Year!