Article and Sermon – Behold, God is Doing a New Thing!

Thus says the LORD, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, (17) who brings forth chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: (18) “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. (19) Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. (20) The wild beasts will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches, for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, (21) the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise. – Isaiah 43:16-21 (ESV)

Have you ever felt stuck in the past—whether in your regrets, routines, or even in how you view God? In Isaiah 43:16–21, God speaks to His people in exile with a powerful reminder and an even greater promise: “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (v. 19)

God begins by reminding Israel of His mighty acts in the past—the parting of the Red Sea, the defeat of Pharaoh’s army (vv. 16–17). But then He says something surprising: “Remember not the former things…” (v. 18). Why would God ask them to forget such monumental acts? Because He’s not done yet. God is telling His people—and us—not to limit our expectations to what He’s done before. The God who once made a way through the sea is now making a way in the wilderness. The God who conquered enemies with power is now bringing living water to parched hearts. He’s not recycling the past; He’s unfolding something new—
ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” —2 Corinthians 5:17.

As Christians, we believe in the sovereign hand of God in all things. He alone redeems. He alone restores. And He does so for His glory and for our good. Even in dry seasons, God is at work. Even in wilderness moments, His rivers of grace are flowing. God formed us, His chosen people, “that [we] might declare [His] praise” (v. 21).

Whatever season you’re in—whether flourishing or weary—take heart. The Lord is not finished with you. He is doing a new thing, even now. So lift up your eyes. Trust in His promises. And prepare your heart to praise.
Soli Deo Gloria!

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Jason Boothe is one of the Pastors and Bible Teachers at Redeemer Church of Piketon, Ohio. He preaches the Free and Sovereign Grace of God in Christ.