Zechariah 8:1-23
"Thus saith the LORD . . .", continues the prophet incessantly (vv. 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 19, 20, 23). When we read the Bible, or quote it to others, let us not lose sight of the fact that it is God speaking.
The poor children of Judah hear promises which correspond to their present state, for their God will not forget them ("Zechariah" means, moreover, "he whom the LORD remembers"). Jerusalem uninhabited and desolate will again be a city of people and life (Nehemiah 11:1-2). The first to return there will be the LORD Himself (v. 3; see Zechariah 1:16). With Him, blessing will re-appear and fear will flee away. Spiritually it is the same in the Assembly. The presence of the Lord in the midst of His own is an assurance to them of all that they need.
Let us take to ourselves the exhortation of v. 16, repeated in Ephesians 4:25 : "Speak every man truth with his neighbour." The end of v. 19 urges: "Love the truth . . ."
Now the LORD can reply to the delegation from Bethel on the question of days of fasting (Zechariah 7:2-3): they will become days of happiness and joy, happy, cheerful gatherings (v. 19; fulfilment of Psalms 122:1-9). Can they mourn, those who rejoice in the presence of the Bridegroom in their midst? (cf. Matthew 9:14-15).