Ryan Abramson Faith

The Passage: Isaiah 43:18-19

“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.”

Understanding the Words

At its heart, this scripture calls for renewal and forward-thinking. God, through the prophet Isaiah, challenges His people to let go of their attachment to past struggles and victories alike. Instead, He urges them to focus on the "new thing" He is orchestrating. This "new thing" represents God’s active presence and His plans to deliver His people from hardship, turning their deserts into flourishing lands.

"Forget the former things": This isn’t about erasing memory but releasing the emotional and spiritual burdens tied to the past.
"Do not dwell on the past": Living in past regrets or even relying too heavily on past triumphs can hinder personal and spiritual growth.
"I am doing a new thing": God’s creative power is always at work, bringing life and opportunities where there seems to be none.
"Streams in the wasteland": Even in the driest, most desolate areas of life, God promises refreshment, renewal, and sustenance.

For Ryan Abramson, these words serve as a call to remain optimistic and steadfast in faith, trusting that God’s hand is always at work, even in challenging times.

Historical Context of Isaiah 43:18-19

The book of Isaiah, one of the major prophetic texts in the Bible, addresses the people of Judah during a time of significant upheaval. Chapters 40–55, known as "Second Isaiah" or the Book of Consolation, were written during the Babylonian exile—a period when the Israelites were forcibly removed from their homeland.

This passage was meant to comfort and inspire a displaced and downtrodden people. God, speaking through Isaiah, reminds the Israelites of His faithfulness. He calls them to remember His past deliverance—such as the exodus from Egypt—but not to remain stuck in it. Instead, He promises a new act of salvation, one even greater than before.

For Catholics like Ryan Abramson, this historical backdrop highlights the timeless nature of God’s promises. Just as God brought hope and renewal to the Israelites, He continues to work in the lives of believers today, offering spiritual revival and purpose.

Applying Isaiah 43:18-19 in Modern Faith

Ryan Abramson often reflects on the relevance of this passage in today’s fast-paced world. It’s easy to become bogged down by past mistakes, missed opportunities, or even the weight of modern challenges. Isaiah 43:18-19 serves as a reminder to focus on the present and the possibilities of the future.

Faith in Action

Trusting God’s Plan: The wilderness and wasteland symbolize life’s trials, but God’s promise of streams shows His provision during hardships.
Letting Go: Holding onto past hurts or failures limits spiritual growth. This scripture inspires believers to release those burdens and trust in God's "new thing."
Spiritual Renewal: Just as God promised to transform the wasteland, this passage calls Christians to look for the ways He is working in their lives—whether through relationships, opportunities, or moments of grace.

Why Isaiah 43:18-19 Resonates with Ryan Abramson

Ryan Abramson's deep connection to Isaiah 43:18-19 stems from his belief in the power of authentic faith and God's ability to transform lives. As a communications leader and mentor, Ryan often emphasizes the importance of forward momentum. Much like the passage, he encourages others to embrace change, trust in God’s provision, and recognize His hand in shaping their journeys.

This scripture also aligns with Ryan's Catholic upbringing, where themes of renewal, redemption, and God’s continuous work are central. It reminds him—and others—that faith isn’t static; it’s a dynamic relationship with God that constantly evolves and grows.

The Spirit of Renewal in Daily Life

Isaiah 43:18-19 isn’t just a call to faith; it’s an invitation to live with hope and courage. For Ryan Abramson, the passage is a source of inspiration for both personal and professional growth. It fuels his passion for teaching, mentoring, and empowering others through authentic communication and storytelling.

In Spiritual Practice: Praying with this passage helps believers find clarity and strength during times of uncertainty.
In Leadership: Embracing the message of renewal allows leaders like Ryan to approach challenges with creativity and resilience.
In Community: Sharing this message fosters encouragement, reminding others that God is always doing “a new thing” in their lives.

Final Thoughts

Isaiah 43:18-19 is a profound reminder of God’s unwavering love and His promise to make all things new. For Ryan Abramson, this scripture holds a special place in his heart, guiding his faith and actions. Whether in his Catholic upbringing, his professional endeavors, or his personal reflections, the message of renewal, faith, and trust in God’s spirit remains a cornerstone of his journey.

As you meditate on these words, consider how God may be calling you to release the past, embrace the present, and walk confidently into the future He has planned. With faith, trust, and a spirit open to renewal, there’s no wilderness too vast or wasteland too barren for God’s streams of grace.