What does "love truth and peace" mean in the context of Zechariah 8:19?

Setting and Flow of Zechariah 8

• Zechariah 8 is an oracle of restoration.

• After decades of exile, the LORD promises Judah renewed favor, rebuilt Jerusalem, abundant crops, and the return of His presence.

• Verse 19 shifts four national fasts—days that once mourned destruction—into “joyful and pleasant feasts.”

• The closing charge anchors the entire promise: “So love truth and peace.” (Zechariah 8:19)

---

Meaning of “Love Truth and Peace”

• “Love” (Hebrew ’ahav): not mere liking, but wholehearted devotion; a choice to prize and pursue.

• “Truth” (’emet): firmness, faithfulness, reliability—everything consistent with God’s character and word (Psalm 31:5; John 17:17).

• “Peace” (shalom): wholeness, safety, harmony—well-being in relationship with God and others (Psalm 29:11; Isaiah 26:3).

• Together, the phrase calls God’s people to treasure what He treasures:

– Personal integrity—honest speech, transparent dealings (Zechariah 8:16; Ephesians 4:25).

– Faithful justice—fair decisions, no partiality (Micah 6:8).

– Relational harmony—reconciliation, the end of strife (Romans 14:19; Hebrews 12:14).

• The link to the new feasts shows that joy in the LORD is inseparable from a life shaped by truth and shalom.

---

Why the Command Matters

• Covenant Consistency: God’s nature is “abounding in loving devotion and truth” (Exodus 34:6). His restored people must mirror that nature.

• Community Stability: Lies fracture; truth repairs. Conflict destroys; peace unites (Proverbs 12:19; James 3:18).

• Witness to the Nations: A truthful, peace-loving community displays the reality of the LORD’s reign (Zechariah 8:23; Matthew 5:16).

---

Living Out the Call Today

• Speak truthfully—no exaggeration, flattery, or hidden agendas.

• Keep promises—contracts, vows, and everyday commitments.

• Guard doctrine—hold fast to Scripture’s clear, literal teaching (2 Timothy 1:13–14).

• Seek reconciliation—initiate peace where offenses linger (Matthew 5:24).

• Promote justice—defend the vulnerable, reject partiality (Proverbs 21:3).

• Pray and labor for societal shalom—homes, churches, workplaces marked by order and mutual edification (1 Thessalonians 5:13b).

When God’s people cherish truth and peace, the mourning of past judgment truly turns into the feasting of present grace, and the nations see the goodness of the LORD.