King James Bible
"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."
Isaiah announces God's imminent arrival as a powerful warrior-king, emphasizing divine might through the metaphor of a "strong hand." Written to exiles anticipating return from Babylon, this proclamation promises that God himself will intervene decisively to deliver his people. The "arm" represents God's executive power—the means by which he accomplishes his sovereign will. The phrase indicates that God needs no intermediary or assistant; his own strength suffices to establish his reign. God comes bearing both recompense for the faithful and the completed task of redemption. The parallel structure suggests God's work is already accomplished in his purpose, and he brings the fruits of that victory—restoration and blessing—to distribute to his people.