17 Sep: Moving the Fence
Behold, I will do a new thing. Isaiah 43:19
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 43:18–21
The village vicar lay awake one night as World War II continued around him. Earlier, a small group of American soldiers had asked to bury their fallen friend in the cemetery beside his church. The vicar had refused because the cemetery was reserved for church members. With no other choice, the soldiers buried their companion just beyond the fence.
When they returned the following morning, they couldn’t find the grave. “What happened? The grave is gone,” one of the soldiers said. “Oh, it’s still there,” the vicar replied. Seeing their confusion, he explained, “I regretted turning you away. So last night, I got up and moved the fence.”
At times, we become so focused on the way things have always been that we fail to notice the new way God is leading us. The people of Israel faced the same struggle. They remembered how God had rescued them through the Red Sea, but Isaiah urged them not to keep looking backward. God was still at work and would make a way for them again.
“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?” (Isaiah 43:18–19). God continued, “I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert” (verse 19). He also promised, “I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen” (verse 20).
The road ahead may not resemble the one behind us, but God hasn’t stopped guiding His people. He can open a path where none seems possible and bring refreshment to places that feel dry and empty.
May God help us release the past, recognize where He is leading today, and trust Him enough to follow. With our eyes fixed on Him, we can step forward with courage into the new ground He has prepared.
By: Abigail Peterson
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Reflect & Pray
What new thing would God like to accomplish in your life? What new ground has God led you to and what will you do with it?
Merciful God, thank You for providing fresh perspective for my life in You. Refresh my sight to see new ground to walk with You.