Isaiah 43:20

The beast of the field shall honor mee, the dragons and the owles, because I giue waters in the wildernesse, and riuers in the desert, to giue drinke to my people, my chosen. Isaiah 43:20 (KJV)

The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness,

and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen. Isaiah 43:20 (KJV)

Isaiah, one of the major prophets of the Old Testament, delivered a collection of prophecies to the people of Judah during a period of national crisis and exile in Babylon. In chapter 43 God speaks through Isaiah to reassure and comfort His people, promising future deliverance and divine care.

The verse employs vivid symbolic language. The “beast of the field,” the “dragons,” and the “owls” represent creatures that inhabit the wilderness and desert—places traditionally seen as desolate. Their mention underscores that even the most remote and seemingly insignificant parts of creation will acknowledge God’s sovereignty.

Central to the passage is the theme of God’s provision. He declares that He will supply waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, illustrating His power to bring life‑giving refreshment to His chosen people amid the harshest conditions. This imagery conveys that God can transform barren environments into sources of sustenance.

For believers today, the verse holds enduring spiritual significance. It reminds us that the same faithful God who provided water for Israel in the wilderness remains able to satisfy our spiritual thirst and nourish our souls when we face difficulty. The promise of divine provision encourages trust in God’s ongoing care.

The reference to “my people” and “my chosen” primarily denotes the nation of Israel in the Old Testament. The New Testament broadens this identity, extending the concept of God’s chosen people to all who trust in Jesus Christ, forming a royal priesthood and a holy nation (cf. 1 Peter 2:9).

Finally, the passage concludes with the affirmation that the creatures of the field, desert, and sky will honor God. This highlights the universal scope of God’s reign and the ultimate purpose of all creation—to bring glory to Him. The verse thus calls believers to recognize God’s sovereign care and to join creation in worshipful honor.