Isaiah 35:4

Say to those with anxious hearts: "Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance. With divine retribution He will come to save you."

Study Bible

Say to those with anxious hearts
This phrase addresses individuals who are experiencing fear or distress. The Hebrew word for "anxious" here is "mahar," which conveys a sense of hurriedness or anxiety. In the historical context of Isaiah, the people of Israel were often in turmoil due to threats from surrounding nations. This message is a divine reassurance, encouraging believers to trust in God's sovereignty and providence. It speaks to the timeless human condition of anxiety and the need for divine comfort.

Be strong, do not fear
The call to "be strong" is a common biblical exhortation, often associated with courage and faith in God. The Hebrew word "chazaq" implies strength and firmness. This command is not just about physical strength but spiritual resilience. "Do not fear" is a frequent biblical refrain, reminding believers that fear is countered by faith. Historically, this would have been a powerful encouragement to the Israelites facing external threats, and it remains relevant for Christians today who are called to stand firm in their faith amidst life's challenges.

Your God will come
This promise is central to the message of hope. The assurance that "your God will come" is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew word "bo" for "come" suggests an arrival or intervention. This is a prophetic declaration of God's imminent action on behalf of His people. It reflects the historical context of Israel's expectation of divine deliverance and points forward to the ultimate fulfillment in the coming of Christ, who embodies God's presence with His people.

with vengeance
The term "vengeance" here, from the Hebrew "naqam," refers to divine retribution against the enemies of God's people. It is not about human revenge but God's righteous judgment. In the biblical narrative, God's vengeance is often depicted as a means of justice and restoration. This would have been a comforting assurance to the Israelites that their oppressors would face divine justice, and it serves as a reminder to Christians that God is just and will ultimately right all wrongs.

with divine retribution
This phrase emphasizes the nature of God's intervention as both just and redemptive. The Hebrew "gemul" for "retribution" implies a recompense or reward. It underscores the idea that God's actions are measured and purposeful. In the broader scriptural context, divine retribution is part of God's plan to restore righteousness and peace. For believers, it is a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the hope of His righteous kingdom.

He will come to save you
The promise of salvation is the culmination of this verse. The Hebrew "yasha" for "save" conveys deliverance and victory. This assurance of salvation is both immediate and eschatological, pointing to God's deliverance from temporal troubles and the ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ. Historically, this would have been a profound promise to the Israelites, and it continues to inspire Christians with the hope of eternal life and the assurance of God's saving grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah during a time of moral and spiritual decline.

2. The Anxious Hearts
Refers to the people of Judah who were experiencing fear and uncertainty due to external threats and internal spiritual decay.

3. God
The central figure in this passage, promising deliverance and salvation to His people.

4. Vengeance and Divine Retribution
These terms indicate God's justice and His commitment to righting wrongs and delivering His people from oppression.

5. Salvation
The ultimate promise of deliverance and restoration for those who trust in God.

Teaching Points

Courage in the Face of Fear
Believers are called to be strong and courageous, trusting in God's promises even when circumstances seem dire.

God's Justice and Vengeance
Understanding that God is just and will bring about His vengeance can provide comfort and assurance that wrongs will be righted.

The Promise of Salvation
God's promise to save is not just a future hope but a present reality for those who trust in Him. This salvation is both spiritual and, ultimately, physical.

Trust in God's Timing
While God's deliverance is assured, it often comes in His timing, requiring patience and faith from believers.

Encouragement to Others
As believers, we are called to encourage those with anxious hearts, reminding them of God's promises and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we apply the command to "be strong, do not fear" in our daily lives, especially when facing personal challenges?

2. In what ways does understanding God's vengeance and divine retribution provide comfort in times of injustice?

3. How does the promise of salvation in Isaiah 35:4 relate to the New Testament understanding of salvation through Jesus Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can encourage those with anxious hearts in our community or church?

5. How do the themes of Isaiah 35:4 connect with the broader account of God's redemption plan throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 31:6
This verse also encourages strength and courage, reminding believers that God will not leave or forsake them.

Psalm 46:1-3
Highlights God as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble, which aligns with the assurance given in Isaiah 35:4.

Hebrews 10:30
Speaks of God's vengeance, reinforcing the idea that God will repay and bring justice.

Revelation 21:4
Describes the ultimate salvation and restoration where God will wipe away every tear, connecting to the promise of salvation in Isaiah 35:4.