Isaiah 43 Verse 18 to 19 Explained

January 01, 2026

VERSE OF THE DAY SCRIPTURE 📖

Isaiah 43:18–19 (KJV)

“Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
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.”

EXPLANATION 🌱

Isaiah 43:18–19 is one of the most hopeful and forward-looking passages in the Bible. It is a message spoken by God to the children of Israel during a difficult season of captivity, discouragement, and uncertainty. Yet, the words go far beyond their historical situation—they speak powerfully to anyone who feels stuck, tired, or weighed down by the past.

God begins with a surprising instruction: “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.” This does not mean that God wants His people to forget everything He has done before. In fact, throughout Scripture, God often tells His people to remember His works. What He is addressing here is an unhealthy attachment to the past—whether past failures, past pains, or even past victories.

Sometimes, we are so focused on what used to be that we become blind to what God is doing now. Old disappointments can make us fearful. Old successes can make us complacent. God is saying, in essence, “Don’t let yesterday limit your expectation for today.” 💭

Then comes the powerful declaration: “Behold, I will do a new thing.” The word “behold” is a call to attention. God is saying, “Look closely. Pay attention.” This new thing is not vague or distant—it is already in motion. “Now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?” Like a seed pushing through the soil, God’s new work may begin quietly, but it is alive and growing 🌱.

The verse continues with a vivid promise: “I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” In biblical language, a wilderness represents confusion, lack, isolation, or hardship. A desert symbolizes dryness, emptiness, and hopelessness. God is saying that even in places where progress seems impossible, He can create a path. Even where life feels dry, He can cause refreshing streams to flow 💧.

This shows us that God’s power is not limited by circumstances. He does not wait for ideal conditions. Instead, He transforms the environment itself. What looks like an obstacle becomes a testimony. What looks like the end becomes the beginning.

For believers today, Isaiah 43:18–19 is a reminder that God is a God of fresh starts. Your past does not intimidate Him. Your current situation does not restrict Him. No matter how long you have been in a “wilderness season,” God is able to open a new chapter—one you may not have imagined before ✨.

SELF REFLECTION 🤔

Are there past experiences—failures, regrets, or even old successes—that are holding you back from trusting God for something new? Have you been so focused on what didn’t work before that you are missing what God may already be doing now?

Take a moment to reflect and ask yourself: What wilderness or desert area of my life needs God’s new way and fresh rivers? Share your thoughts, reflections, or personal experiences in the comments below 💬. Your story might encourage someone else who is waiting for their own “new thing.”

Wisdom From Scriptures