Isaiah 40:10

KJV

Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong [hand], and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward [is] with him, and his work before him.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold, the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069} will come {H935} with strong {H2389} hand, and his arm {H2220} shall rule {H4910} for him: behold, his reward {H7939} is with him, and his work {H6468} before {H6440} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here comes Adonai ELOHIM with power, and his arm will rule for him. Look! His reward is with him, and his recompense is before him.

Berean Standard Bible

Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and His arm establishes His rule. His reward is with Him, and His recompense accompanies Him.

American Standard Version

Behold, the Lord Jehovah will come as a mighty one, and his arm will rule for him: Behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 40:10 stands as a profound declaration of the Lord GOD's imminent and sovereign intervention, portraying His return not as a gentle presence but as a powerful, decisive, and authoritative King. This verse assures God's people that He will personally execute His divine plan, bringing with Him both just recompense for all and the full realization of His redemptive purposes. It encapsulates the transition from judgment to comfort, emphasizing God's irresistible might and unwavering commitment to His covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 40 marks a pivotal turning point in the book of Isaiah, initiating what scholars often refer to as the "Book of Comfort" (chapters 40-66). The preceding chapters largely contain prophecies of judgment against Judah and surrounding nations, highlighting their sin and the impending exile. Chapter 40, however, shifts dramatically to messages of hope, comfort, and restoration for Israel after their period of Babylonian exile. The opening verses, such as [Isaiah 40:1-2](/isaiah/40-1-2 "Isaiah 40:1-2 - God's Comfort for Jerusalem"), command the prophet to "Comfort, comfort my people," promising an end to their warfare and pardon for their iniquity. This sets the stage for the glorious description of God's personal, powerful return in verse 10, which describes the divine agent who will bring about this promised deliverance and new era of salvation. The verse thus serves as a powerful affirmation of God's capacity and intention to fulfill the grand promises of restoration articulated in the immediate context of [Isaiah 40](/isaiah/40 "Isaiah 40 - The Comfort of God's People").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Isaiah 40 is the Babylonian exile, a period of immense despair and questioning for the Jewish people. They had lost their land, temple, and monarchy, leading many to doubt God's faithfulness or power. In this context, the prophecy of the Lord GOD's return would have resonated deeply with the imagery of a conquering king or a powerful deity asserting dominion. Ancient Near Eastern cultures often depicted their gods as mighty warriors or rulers, and the language of "strong hand" and "arm" would have been readily understood as symbols of irresistible power and authority. Furthermore, the concept of a ruler bringing "reward" and executing "work" upon his return aligns with the expectations of a sovereign who dispenses justice and establishes order in his realm, restoring what was lost and punishing what was wrong. This prophecy would have offered a radical counter-narrative to the perceived weakness of their exiled state, reminding them of the true, unwavering power of their covenant God, who was not defeated but was actively orchestrating their deliverance and future.
* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 40:10 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Power**, emphasizing that God is not merely observing human history but actively intervening with absolute authority and irresistible might. The imagery of His "strong hand" and ruling "arm" reinforces His omnipotence and ability to bring about His will, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Secondly, the phrase "the Lord GOD will come" highlights **God's Personal Presence and Immanence**. It is not merely an angel or a proxy, but *Adonai Yahweh* Himself, the sovereign covenant-keeping God, who takes decisive action, guaranteeing the fulfillment of His promises. Thirdly, the verse speaks to **Divine Justice and Recompense**, as God brings "his reward" with Him. This signifies that His coming entails a just reckoning for all actions—blessing for the faithful and judgment for the rebellious—a theme echoed throughout prophetic literature, such as in [Psalm 62:12](/psalm/62-12 "Psalm 62:12 - God's Steadfast Love and Recompense"). Finally, "his work before him" points to the **Fulfillment of Divine Purpose**. God's actions are deliberate, purposeful, and lead to a specific, predetermined outcome, culminating in the establishment of His righteous kingdom and the restoration of His people, as promised in passages like [Isaiah 40:3-5](/isaiah/40-3-5 "Isaiah 40:3-5 - The Glory of the Lord Revealed").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lord GOD (Hebrew, _ʼĂdônây Yᵉhôvih'_):** This compound title, transliterating H136 and H3069, is highly significant. `ʼĂdônây` (H136) is an emphatic form of "Lord" or "Master," emphasizing absolute authority and ownership. `Yᵉhôvih` (H3069) is a variation of `YHWH` (Yahweh), the personal, covenantal name of God, often used in conjunction with `ʼĂdônây` to avoid repetition of the sacred name. Together, "Lord GOD" signifies the supreme, sovereign Master who is personally and intimately involved with His people, upholding His covenant promises with ultimate authority and power, denoting His unchallengeable dominion over all creation.
* **arm (Hebrew, _zᵉrôwaʻ'_):** From H2220, this term refers to the physical arm, but figuratively, it denotes force, power, strength, or help. In biblical usage, particularly when referring to God, the "arm" is a powerful metaphor for His active, irresistible might and His ability to execute His will decisively. It is frequently associated with acts of salvation and deliverance, such as the exodus from Egypt by God's "strong hand and outstretched arm," underscoring His capacity to overcome all opposition and bring about His redemptive purposes.
* **rule (Hebrew, _mâshal'_):** From H4910, this primitive root means "to rule," "to have dominion," or "to govern." When applied to God, it underscores His absolute sovereignty and His rightful claim to universal kingship. In this verse, it emphasizes that God's coming is not merely an appearance but an active assertion of His rightful authority, establishing His reign and ordering creation according to His divine will. This rule is not simply passive oversight but an active, dynamic exercise of power to achieve His purposes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong [hand]":** This opening clause serves as an emphatic announcement of God's arrival. "Behold" (הִנֵּה, `hinnēh`) commands attention to a momentous, certain event. The "Lord GOD" (ʼĂdônây Yᵉhôvih) highlights His supreme authority and covenant faithfulness, emphasizing that the sovereign Master is personally intervening. His coming "with strong hand" (בְּחָזָק יָד, `bᵉchâzâq yâd`) signifies an arrival characterized by irresistible power and decisive action, not a subtle or gentle presence. This imagery evokes a conquering king or a powerful deliverer who acts with unchallengeable might.
* **"and his arm shall rule for him":** This phrase further elaborates on the nature of God's powerful arrival. The "arm" is a well-established biblical metaphor for divine strength and active intervention. The declaration that His arm "shall rule for him" emphasizes God's direct, personal, and sovereign exercise of authority. It means that His power is inherently linked to His dominion, and He will not delegate His ultimate rule but will assert it Himself, ensuring that His will is perfectly executed and His kingdom established.
* **"behold, his reward [is] with him":** The repetition of "behold" again draws attention to a crucial aspect of God's coming, underscoring its certainty and significance. "His reward" (שָׂכָר, `sâkâr`) refers to recompense, payment, or compensation. This signifies that God's arrival is accompanied by divine justice. He brings with Him the just consequences for all actions, implying both blessings for those who have faithfully served Him and judgment for those who have rebelled, ensuring that righteousness prevails.
* **"and his work before him":** This final clause clarifies the nature of the "reward" and the purpose of God's coming. "His work" (פְּעֻלָּה, `pᵉʻullâh`) refers to the outcome of deeds, labor, or activity—the full manifestation of His divine plan. "Before him" (פָּנִים, `pânîym`) indicates that His actions and their results are manifest and evident, openly displayed for all to see. It suggests that God comes prepared to execute His divine plan, to bring to fruition all that He has purposed, and to reveal the just outcome of His dealings with humanity, establishing His righteous order.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 40:10 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine power and purpose. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, particularly in the use of "strong hand" and "arm" to represent God's irresistible power and active intervention. These physical attributes are used to describe the intangible might of the Almighty, making His power relatable and vivid. **Personification** is also present as the "arm" is described as ruling "for him," attributing an active, governing role to a part of the body, further emphasizing God's direct and personal exercise of authority. The verse also utilizes **Parallelism**, especially in the latter half: "his reward [is] with him, and his work before him." This synonymous parallelism reinforces the idea of divine justice and the visible manifestation of God's righteous dealings. Finally, the repeated use of "Behold" (הִנֵּה, `hinnēh`) at the beginning of the first and third clauses functions as **Anaphora** and an emphatic interjection, drawing the reader's attention to the profound significance and certainty of the Lord GOD's coming and the accompanying realities.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 40:10 is a cornerstone prophecy that speaks to the very nature of God—His sovereignty, justice, and faithfulness. It presents a divine King who is not distant or passive but actively engaged in the affairs of His creation, coming to establish His righteous rule. The imagery of His "strong hand" and ruling "arm" connects to a consistent biblical theme of God as the ultimate deliverer and judge, whose power is unmatched and whose will is irresistible. This verse provides assurance that God's promises of comfort and restoration, introduced in [Isaiah 40:1-2](/isaiah/40-1-2 "Isaiah 40:1-2 - God's Comfort for Jerusalem"), will be fulfilled by His own mighty hand, bringing an end to suffering and establishing a new era of justice and peace. The "reward" and "work" signify that His coming is inherently linked to accountability and the full manifestation of His divine plan, ensuring that all will receive their due according to His perfect justice and unwavering commitment to His people.

* [Deuteronomy 6:21](/deuteronomy/6-21 "God's Strong Hand in the Exodus")
* [Psalm 62:12](/psalm/62-12 "God's Steadfast Love and Recompense")
* [Revelation 22:12](/revelation/22-12 "Jesus' Return with Reward")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 40:10 offers profound comfort and a powerful call to faith for believers across all generations. In a world often marked by chaos, injustice, and uncertainty, this verse serves as a steadfast reminder that the Lord GOD is not merely a distant observer but an active, sovereign ruler who will ultimately set all things right. It encourages us to trust in His absolute power and unyielding commitment to His promises, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. Knowing that He comes with "reward" and "work" before Him instills both hope for ultimate justice and a sober recognition of accountability. This should motivate us to live lives that align with His righteous character, pursuing justice, showing mercy, and faithfully serving Him, knowing that our "work" done in His name will not be in vain. It calls us to patiently endure, actively hope, and eagerly anticipate the full manifestation of His kingdom, finding peace in His unwavering control over all things.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of God coming with a "strong hand" and a ruling "arm" challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character and involvement in your life?**
* **In what areas of your life or the world do you long to see God's "reward" and "work" made manifest, bringing justice and resolution?**
* **How does the certainty of God's powerful return impact your daily walk of faith, particularly in moments of doubt or despair?**

### FAQ

**What does "strong hand" and "his arm shall rule for him" signify about God?**

Answer: These phrases are powerful metaphors emphasizing God's absolute and irresistible power, authority, and active intervention. The "strong hand" (Hebrew, `châzâq yâd`) denotes robust, firm, and decisive might, while the "arm" (Hebrew, `zᵉrôwaʻ`) is a common biblical symbol for strength and the ability to act. When it says His "arm shall rule for him," it means that God Himself, through His inherent power, will assert His dominion directly and effectively. It signifies that His rule is not delegated or weak, but personal, sovereign, and ultimately irresistible, bringing about His divine will. This imagery is consistent with God's mighty acts of deliverance, such as the [Exodus from Egypt](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover and Departure from Egypt"), which is frequently described as being accomplished by God's "strong hand and outstretched arm" (e.g., [Deuteronomy 4:34](/deuteronomy/4-34 "Deuteronomy 4:34 - God's Mighty Hand in the Exodus")).

**What is the "reward" and "work" God brings with Him?**

Answer: The "reward" (Hebrew, `sâkâr`) refers to recompense, payment, or compensation. It encompasses both the blessings and just outcomes for those who are faithful to Him, and the judgment or consequences for those who rebel against Him. It signifies divine justice, where every action receives its due. "His work" (Hebrew, `pᵉʻullâh`) refers to the outcome of His deeds or the full manifestation of His divine plan. When the verse states "his work before him," it means that God comes prepared to execute His purposes and reveal the results of His dealings with humanity. This includes the restoration of His people, the establishment of His kingdom, and the final judgment of all creation, as seen in passages like [Revelation 22:12](/revelation/22-12 "Revelation 22:12 - Jesus' Return with Reward"), where Christ declares, "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be."

**How does this verse offer comfort to God's people?**

Answer: For a people in exile, facing despair and questioning God's faithfulness, Isaiah 40:10 offers profound comfort by assuring them that God is not absent or powerless. It promises that the Lord GOD Himself will personally intervene with overwhelming strength and authority. This means that their suffering is not unnoticed, and their cries for deliverance will be answered by a God who is mighty enough to overcome any obstacle. The promise of "reward" and "work" also brings comfort, as it guarantees that justice will prevail, and God's ultimate plan for their restoration and blessing will be fully realized. It shifts their focus from their present distress to the certain hope of God's glorious and redemptive future, reminding them that their sovereign God is in control and will fulfill every promise, as He declares in [Isaiah 43:1-2](/isaiah/43-1-2 "Isaiah 43:1-2 - God's Promise of Redemption").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 40:10 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While initially comforting Israel with the promise of Yahweh's return from exile, this prophecy points forward to the two comings of the Messiah. In His first advent, Jesus, though not coming with visible "strong hand" or an earthly ruling "arm," nevertheless embodied the very presence of the Lord GOD. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Made Flesh") declares, "The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us," revealing the glory of God. His life, ministry, death, and resurrection were the "work" of God, bringing salvation and inaugurating His kingdom, though in a hidden, spiritual form. The "reward" He brought was reconciliation with God and eternal life for those who believe, purchased through His sacrifice.

The full, visible, and majestic fulfillment of Isaiah 40:10, however, awaits Christ's glorious second coming. It is then that "the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him." [Matthew 25:31](/matthew/25-31 "Matthew 25:31 - The Son of Man's Glorious Return") prophesies, "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory." At this return, His "arm shall rule" in an undeniable, universal sense, as He establishes His eternal kingdom and exercises His full dominion over all creation, as depicted in [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ as Victorious Rider"). Furthermore, the promise that "his reward is with him, and his work before him" is directly echoed by Jesus Himself in [Revelation 22:12](/revelation/22-12 "Revelation 22:12 - Christ's Return with Reward"): "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Thus, Isaiah 40:10 is a powerful Messianic prophecy, assuring us that the sovereign, just, and comforting presence of God, first promised to Israel, is ultimately and perfectly realized in Jesus Christ, who came to save and will come again to reign and judge.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 22:12

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

Isaiah 62:11

Behold, the LORD hath proclaimed unto the end of the world, Say ye to the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward [is] with him, and his work before him.

Revelation 17:14

¶ These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him [are] called, and chosen, and faithful.

Matthew 28:18

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Isaiah 49:4

Then I said, I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nought, and in vain: [yet] surely my judgment [is] with the LORD, and my work with my God.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:7

Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.