This is what the Lord says—
he who made a way through the sea,
a path through the mighty waters,
who drew out the chariots and horses,
the army and reinforcements together,
and they lay there, never to rise again,
extinguished, snuffed out like a wick:
“Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
Isaiah 43:16-18
Nestled within the rich tapestry of the Old Testament, Isaiah 43:16-18 encapsulates profound themes of God’s sovereignty, redemption, and the promise of a new beginning. Let’s unravel the context and meaning of these verses.
In Isaiah 43, the prophet addresses the Israelites, offering words of comfort and hope during a period of exile. Verses 16-18 specifically underscore God’s supremacy over creation and recall the miraculous events of the Exodus. “This is what the Lord says – he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters”. Here, the imagery harks back to the parting of the Red Sea, emphasizing God’s ability to create paths where there seemed to be none.
The verses pivot from historical reflections to a prophetic declaration: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:18-19). This shift signals a divine call to look forward with faith and anticipation. God, through Isaiah, encourages His people not to be ensnared by the past but to embrace the anticipation of a new, redemptive work.
The key message resonates universally – God’s power to make a way in seemingly impossible situations and His invitation to embrace a fresh start. This concept isn’t confined to historical events but speaks to the individual journey of faith. It invites reflection on personal exiles, challenging seasons, and the assurance that God is both willing and capable of bringing renewal.
Isaiah 43:16-18 remains an enduring source of inspiration. It reminds us to trust in the God who makes a way in our wilderness, who beckons us to release the burdens of the past, and who, with infinite grace, unfolds a future filled with promise and possibility. As we navigate life’s complexities, let these verses be a beacon of hope, guiding us toward the “new thing” God is continually bringing forth.
