Isaiah 63:5 - Exposition

And I looked, and there was none to help (comp. Isaiah 5:2 , "He looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it brought forth wild grapes:" also Isaiah 41:28 , "I beheld, and there was no man"). By an anthropomorphism God is represented as looking for and expecting what might reasonably have been expected, and even as surprised when he does not find it (comp. Isaiah 59:16 ). Out of all the many nations it was reasonable to suppose that some would have chosen the better part and have been on the Lord's side. But the fact was otherwise (comp. Isaiah 63:3 ). Mine own arm brought salvation unto me ; or, mine own arm helped me (comp. Isaiah 59:16 ). Nothing more is needed. If God arises, his enemies at once " are scattered" ( Psalms 68:1 ). "His own right hand, and his holy arm, get him the victory" ( Psalms 98:1 ).