Old Testament
Isaiah 43:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Look! I am doing something new — it's already springing up. Can't you see it? I am making a road through the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Compare translations
Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.
What Isaiah 43:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 43:19, God is declaring that He is about to do something unprecedented and transformative. The imagery of a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert symbolizes hope and renewal in seemingly impossible situations. This verse encourages believers to recognize and embrace the new things God is bringing into their lives, even when they may not be immediately visible. It emphasizes God's power to create pathways and provide sustenance in the most challenging circumstances. The call to 'see' suggests that awareness and faith are essential to recognize God's work. This promise reassures us that God is actively involved in our lives, bringing change and new opportunities, even when we feel lost or dry. It invites us to trust in His ability to provide and lead us through difficult times, reminding us that with God, there is always a way forward, no matter how dire the situation may seem.
How to apply Isaiah 43:19 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that God is capable of bringing new opportunities into your life. Stay alert to the changes around you and trust that He can create pathways where none seem to exist. Embrace the new things God is doing.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 43:19
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Isaiah 43:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 43:19 mean?
Isaiah 43:19 means that God is announcing a new and transformative action in our lives. The imagery of a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert symbolizes hope and renewal, encouraging us to recognize and embrace the changes God is bringing, even in difficult situations.
What is the significance of 'new thing' in Isaiah 43:19?
The 'new thing' in Isaiah 43:19 signifies God's ability to bring about change and transformation in our lives. It represents hope and the promise of fresh opportunities, reminding us that God can create pathways and provide for us in challenging circumstances.
What does 'way in the wilderness' mean in Isaiah 43:19?
The 'way in the wilderness' in Isaiah 43:19 symbolizes God's guidance and provision in difficult times. It suggests that even when we feel lost or face obstacles, God can create a path forward, leading us through our struggles.
How can I apply Isaiah 43:19 in my life?
To apply Isaiah 43:19 in your life, stay open to new opportunities and changes that God may be bringing your way. Trust that He can create solutions in your challenges and be aware of the signs of His work around you.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.