Old Testament
Ezekiel 29:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I have given him the land of Egypt as his reward for the work he did against it, because they worked for me, declares the Lord GOD.
Compare translations
I have given him the land of Egypt for his labour wherewith he served against it, because they wrought for me, saith the Lord GOD.
What Ezekiel 29:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is communicating a significant message about reward and purpose. He declares that He has given the land of Egypt to a leader as a reward for his efforts against it. This leader worked diligently, not just for personal gain, but in service to God’s greater plan. The work done was not in vain; it was recognized and rewarded by God. This illustrates a principle that when we commit ourselves to a cause greater than ourselves, our efforts can lead to unexpected rewards. God acknowledges the hard work and dedication of those who serve Him, even when the tasks seem challenging. It’s a reminder that our actions have meaning and can contribute to a larger purpose. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to see our work as part of a divine plan, where our efforts can lead to blessings, both for ourselves and for others. God’s recognition of service is a powerful motivator to remain faithful in our endeavors, knowing that they are seen and valued by Him. Our labor can have lasting impact.
How to apply Ezekiel 29:20 to your life
Consider how your daily efforts contribute to a larger purpose. Whether at work, home, or in your community, remember that your hard work matters. Seek to serve others and align your actions with a greater good. Trust that your dedication will be recognized in meaningful ways. Stay committed to your path, knowing it has value in the grand scheme of life.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezekiel 29:20
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezekiel 29:20
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Ezekiel
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 29:20 mean?
Ezekiel 29:20 conveys that God rewarded a leader with the land of Egypt for his efforts against it, emphasizing that his work was done in service to God's plan. It highlights the principle that dedicated service can lead to unexpected rewards.
What is the significance of the land of Egypt in Ezekiel 29:20?
In Ezekiel 29:20, the land of Egypt represents a reward for the leader's labor. It signifies that God acknowledges and rewards those who work diligently for His purposes, even in challenging circumstances.
What does 'wrought for me' mean in Ezekiel 29:20?
The phrase 'wrought for me' in Ezekiel 29:20 indicates that the leader's actions were performed in service to God. It emphasizes that his efforts were aligned with God's greater plan and purpose.
How does Ezekiel 29:20 relate to the concept of divine purpose?
Ezekiel 29:20 illustrates that our efforts can contribute to a divine purpose, as God recognizes and rewards those who serve Him. It encourages individuals to see their work as part of a larger plan.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.