A Daily Devotion for Wednesday, July 16
- ontrakk
- Jul 16, 2025
- 1 min read
Isaiah 43:19
“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.”
This reading reminds me of something I have been thinking a lot about. We might be puzzled by scripture that suggests we be thankful for every single thing that happens in our lives- that in everything there are gifts and the grace of God. But I am learning the truth in this. God allows and encourages growth in all situations. I have been trying to develop a new habit- when I am disappointed or in any way upset, I ask God to help me see the positive in the situation. And I need to remember to give thanks. That is a tough one when we are hurting. But when I do see the silver lining, I am reminded again for God’s love for all of us.
Holy Lord, I know you love your creation, and that includes me. In every situation you are there to show your love and grace. Help me to stop and experience you, even when things do not go the way I think they should. Amen
Becky, transforming
Isaiah 43:19-23 A Closer Look
The author of today's devotion reminded me about why I garden. Today's gardeners are more aware than ever of the things a garden needs. Yes, of course, we want beautiful vegetables and flowers, but more important we want the flowers that the bees, butterflies, and birds need. The colors that attract them, the nectar that feeds them, and the pollen that ultimately feeds us. We also know that at the end of the season, the spent blooms are still offering seeds to many wildlife. We shouldn't be too quick to cut everything back. The wildlife isn't done enjoying my garden. This thinking is also true of our lives. When we are young and healthy, …
Upper room devotionals
July 16th, 2025
A closer look
(Focus: gratitude for God’s work in my life
Isaiah 43:19
Behold, I am doing 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.
This is a powerful promise. It tells me to forget the past and look to the future. God is doing something new, and he wants me to be a part of it. Like the dead sunflower field there,was still love, hope and life. This encourages me to let go of past struggles and realize that God is actively working to bring new beginnings and positive changes for me even when I do…
Isaiah 43:19
In Isaiah 43:18, the verse just before the suggested reading, reads, “But the Lord says, “do not cling to events of the past or dwell on what happened long ago””. God carves a path for us with great purpose and great detail that moves us forward, not backward. The road through our “wilderness” may not always be easy or full of joy, but God is there always to give us “streams of water” to sustain us. I have traveled my own wilderness and sometimes it’s hard to not look back and think of things we should’ve done or how we wish things still were, but I must look at the beauty and blessings that lie ahead in this…
Isaiah 43:19 I am blessed to be participating in a new thing God is doing. Three years ago the interfaith service at Scout camp was discontinued for lack of interest and participation. It took that long for those committed to seeing it return to see our efforts bear fruit. I am here for week three of seven and the first two weeks have gone very well. Isaiah’s words about making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland are ringing true. God will use people willing to step out in faith to do new things.
Prayer - Thank You, Lord for the opportunity to minister to young people in the cathedral of the great outdoors. This is a privilege…