TRV
Isaiah 40:8
Bible Versions
The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.
The grass dries up, the flower fades; but the word of our God will stand forever."
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.”
The grass withereth, the flower fadeth; but the word of our God shall stand forever.
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Mark 13:31
Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. -
1 Peter 1:25
But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. -
Matthew 24:35
Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. -
Matthew 5:18
For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. -
Psalms 119:89
¶ LAMED. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. -
Psalms 119:91
They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all [are] thy servants. -
Isaiah 55:10
For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:
Isaiah 40:8 is a powerful declaration from the "Book of Comfort" (Isaiah 40-66), emphasizing the stark contrast between the fleeting nature of human existence and the eternal permanence of God's divine word. It offers a profound message of hope and stability in a world of constant change.
Context
This verse comes at the beginning of a new section in Isaiah, shifting from prophecies of judgment to messages of comfort and restoration for Israel, particularly looking towards their eventual return from Babylonian exile. The preceding verses (Isaiah 40:6-7) establish the fragility of humanity, likening all flesh to grass and its glory to the flower of the field, which quickly withers and fades. Verse 8 directly follows this observation, providing the antidote and ultimate truth: while all human endeavors and life itself are transient, God's word stands forever.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew terms used for "withereth" (yābēš) and "fadeth" (nābēl) convey a strong sense of drying up, shriveling, and perishing, painting a picture of complete decay. In contrast, "shall stand for ever" (yāqûm lĕ‘ôlām) combines the verb yāqûm, meaning to rise, establish, or endure, with lĕ‘ôlām, signifying "to eternity" or "forever." This linguistic choice powerfully emphasizes the absolute and perpetual nature of God's word, distinguishing it as eternally firm and unyielding.
Related Scriptures
The theme of human frailty is echoed in Psalm 103:15-16, which similarly describes humanity's days as grass. The enduring nature of God's word is a foundational biblical truth, affirmed throughout Scripture. The Apostle Peter directly quotes this passage from Isaiah in his first epistle to highlight the power and permanence of the Gospel message. Jesus Himself affirmed this truth, stating that heaven and earth shall pass away, but His words shall not pass away. Compare also Psalm 119:89: "For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven."
Practical Application
In a world characterized by constant change, uncertainty, and fleeting trends, Isaiah 40:8 provides immense comfort and a firm foundation. It reminds us that while everything around us may decay or pass away, the truth and promises of God remain steadfast. This verse encourages believers to place their trust not in temporary human institutions, achievements, or even life itself, but in the eternal, unwavering Word of God. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's plans and purposes will always prevail, offering hope and stability in every generation.