"I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert" (Isaiah 43:19).

What a bold proclamation! Much of the book of Isaiah is devoted to stern warnings and the coming judgment of God. In this 43rd chapter the tone changes from judgment to redemption and restoration of Israel. Was this redemption earned because of the behavior of Israel? No, it was a response from God because of God's covenant relationship with his chosen people.

Listen again to this powerful statement of freedom from the bondage of sin. "Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old" (43:18).

Many people have experienced the embarrassment of having told someone that they would do something for them but didn't. Each ti…