The Beauty of New Beginnings
Struggling with regret, shame, or past mistakes? Isaiah 43 reveals God’s promise of redemption and a new beginning—even when you feel it’s too late.
Isaiah 43
Today's Scripture Passage
A Few Thoughts to Consider
Do you struggle with guilt over poor decisions you’ve made?
When you reflect on previous years, do you wish you could have some do-overs on conversations, relationships, and financial decisions? If so, you’re not alone.
Isaiah 43 was written during a turbulent time in Israel’s history. It was likely written during the Babylonian exile when many Israelites were forcibly removed from their homeland and taken to Babylon. And amid this chaos, the Prophet Isaiah shares these powerful words:
1 Now this is what the Lord says—
the one who created you, Jacob,
and the one who formed you, Israel—
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name; you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you,
and the rivers will not overwhelm you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be scorched,
and the flame will not burn you.
“I have called you by your name; you are mine.” What a beautifully worded reminder. The reason God’s people were in Babylon was because of a series of sinful choices they had made. Now, they’re living under the weight of their terrible decisions. And it’s into this terrible weight that God says,
18 “Do not remember the past events;
pay no attention to things of old.
19 Look, I am about to do something new;
even now it is coming. Do you not see it?
Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness,
rivers in the desert.
This “new thing” is a nod to the context of this passage. In Isaiah 42, we read of a “suffering servant” who would be Israel’s promised Messiah. Thus, this new work is God’s declaration to Israel that everything will be different with the coming of Christ.
A Meditation to PRAY
Praise | Heavenly Father, I praise you for being the One who created and formed me. You have called me by name, and I belong to you. You are a God who does new things, making ways in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. I worship you for your faithfulness, your redeeming love, and your unwavering presence in my life.
Release | As I reflect on past mistakes and poor decisions, I feel the weight of regret. But I trust in your promise of new beginnings. Help me to let go of the fear that you are still angry with me and embrace the fresh start you offer through Christ.
