A New Thing in Jesus
Isaiah 43:18-19
Do not remember the past events, pay no attention to things of old. 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, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to My chosen people.
Jesus came into the world after a long season of spiritual drought. God did not speak to His people for more than 400 years as they awaited the promised Messiah. Many must have certainly given up hope and even have become accustomed to not hearing from God. During this dry season, religious leaders had the opportunity to take control of the people by imposing additional requirements and placing heavy religious burdens on the backs of God’s people. It was time for something new – a new covenant that would replace the law the Pharisees, Scribes, and Sadducees had twisted and imposed upon the people. It was time for a covenant that would refresh, renew, and restore God’s people from the harshness of the world and give them new life. It was time for Jesus, the Messiah, to come.
Wilderness seasons come to us all. Such seasons drain us of energy and cause us to lose hope. The unfamiliar territory can discourage us and leave us uncertain of God’s love for us. When God doesn’t speak, we may begin to question whether or not what we believe about God is true. The wrestling itself is enough to exhaust us, and we may find it difficult to move on in life. Becoming tired of the wilderness – dissatisfaction with church as usual – is a sure sign we need something new. We need the revival that only Jesus can bring.
God promises to make a way in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to His chosen people. He understands our thirst, and He prepares something new to refresh and revive us. This new thing is designed to point us to Jesus. He may change our circumstances, move us, or give us new opportunity. Whatever it is, God will use it to align us with Him so His blessings may flow to us and He can fulfill His purpose in us.
Don’t become so comfortable in your present situation that it becomes a desert. Be open to something new. Whether it is new friendships, new projects, or even a new environment, expect God to refresh you in a way you never before anticipated. While the familiar may be comfortable, it can become a spiritual death trap if we refuse to go further. God is doing a new thing, and it will be glorious because it will reveal Christ to us.
Have a blessed day!