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? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

- Isaiah 43:18-19

Have you ever felt weighed down by your past?

As we journey through life in our walk with God, we must refuse to allow the past to define us.

Oftentimes, the enemy will try to remind us of our past in the hopes of causing us shame and delay us in fulfilling our calling here on earth.

What a fool he is!

Because Jesus died on the cross, He has already paid the price in full for our guilt and shame… past, present, and future!

In times when we feel like we have run into a brick wall, it may be because we are forecasting our past into our present and future.

Satan will try to shoot arrows against our minds in the form of illusions concerning our future.

He will cast doubt for what lies ahead.

When this happens, your job is to not give up!

The truth is that your future is firmly planted in God’s hands. Not once has He let you slip from His fingers or allowed you to be stolen from Him.

As a beloved child of the Most High, your duty is to keep believing God can do wondrous things for you and through you.

If you feel like you are in the midst of a dry wilderness, refuse to be halted by the obstacles that come your way!

Keep moving forward in child-like trust and dependency on the Lord, knowing that He wants what’s best for you and will be faithful in delivering you safely!

No matter how small, each step you take while grasping the Lord’s hand will enable the path before you to gradually open.

Where there once seemed to be no way, now lies a new path of hopeful abundance!

TODAY: Know that the Lord is doing a new thing in you, for you, and through you. He is saying to let go of the former things, and look to Him regarding the future. Rejoice, for a new stream of His faithful abundance is springing forth amid the barren wasteland!

With Love,
Sarah Sherstad

As you reflect on Isaiah 43:18–19, use your Personalized Scripture Journal as a place to personally meet with God about what He may be doing in your life.

Write through these prompts slowly:

·       What past season am I still holding onto?

·       Is there disappointment I haven’t fully released?

·       Where might God be asking me to trust Him with something new?

·       What would it look like to notice the “new thing” He is doing?

·       How can I grow closer to Him in this transition?

God tells His people not to dwell on the former things. That does not mean ignoring the past — it means not living there. He invites us to watch for His movement in the present.

After reflecting, write a direct prayer:

Tell Him what feels hard to release.
Ask Him to open your eyes to what He is doing now.
Invite Him to guide you step by step.

Your journal becomes a record of how God moves you from old seasons into new growth. Over time, you will see how each “new thing” deepens your trust and relationship with Him.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Isaiah 43:18–19 mean?
It is God’s promise of renewal and restoration, encouraging His people to look forward instead of staying stuck in the past.

What is the “new thing” God is doing?
It refers to His ongoing work of redemption, guidance, and restoration in our lives.

How can I recognize God’s work in my life?
Through prayer, reflection, and paying attention to subtle shifts in opportunities, desires, and growth.

Why is journaling helpful during seasons of change?
Writing clarifies emotions, helps process transitions, and invites God into uncertainty.

How does this passage build a personal relationship with God?
It encourages active trust — watching for His work, listening for His direction, and responding with faith.

What if I don’t see anything new happening?
Sometimes God’s “new thing” begins quietly within your heart before it becomes visible externally. Stay close to Him.