Zechariah 10:7

Ephraim will be like a mighty man, and their hearts will be glad as with wine. Their children will see it and be joyful; their hearts will rejoice in the LORD.

Study Bible

Ephraim will be like mighty men
The name "Ephraim" refers to one of the tribes of Israel, often representing the Northern Kingdom. Historically, Ephraim was known for its strength and prominence among the tribes. The phrase "like mighty men" suggests a restoration of strength and valor. In Hebrew, "gibborim" (mighty men) conveys the idea of warriors or heroes. This imagery indicates a divine empowerment, where God restores the tribe's former glory and strength, reminiscent of the mighty warriors of Israel's past.

and their hearts will rejoice as with wine
The heart in Hebrew thought is the center of emotion and will. The phrase "rejoice as with wine" uses the imagery of wine to symbolize joy and celebration. Wine, in biblical times, was often associated with festivity and abundance. This suggests a deep, exuberant joy that comes from divine blessing and restoration. The comparison to wine indicates a joy that is both profound and intoxicating, a joy that transforms the spirit and uplifts the soul.

Their children will see it and be glad
The mention of "their children" highlights the generational impact of God's blessings. In the Hebrew culture, the well-being of children was a sign of God's favor. The children witnessing the joy and strength of their parents would naturally lead to their own gladness. This phrase underscores the continuity of God's promises and blessings through generations, ensuring that the joy and strength experienced by one generation will inspire and uplift the next.

their hearts will rejoice in the LORD
The ultimate source of joy is identified as "the LORD." This phrase emphasizes that true and lasting joy comes from a relationship with God. The Hebrew word for "rejoice" here is "samach," which conveys a deep, abiding joy rooted in divine presence and favor. This joy is not merely circumstantial but is anchored in the character and promises of God. It reflects a heart that finds its ultimate satisfaction and delight in the Lord, transcending earthly circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ephraim
Represents the northern kingdom of Israel, often used to symbolize the ten tribes. In this context, it signifies the people of God who will be restored and strengthened.

2. Mighty Man
A metaphor for strength and valor. It indicates the transformation and empowerment of God's people.

3. Hearts Glad as with Wine
Symbolizes joy and celebration. Wine in the Bible often represents abundance and blessing.

4. Children
The next generation who will witness and partake in the joy and blessings of God's restoration.

5. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is the source of joy and strength for His people.

Teaching Points

Empowerment through God
Just as Ephraim is likened to a mighty man, believers are empowered by God to overcome challenges and live victoriously.

Joy in the LORD
True joy comes from a relationship with God. Like the joy described as being "glad as with wine," our joy should be rooted in the LORD's presence and promises.

Generational Impact
The joy and strength of one generation can influence and inspire the next. Our faithfulness can lead to blessings for our children.

Restoration and Hope
God's promise of restoration is a source of hope. No matter the current circumstances, God is able to bring renewal and joy.

Rejoicing in God's Promises
We are called to rejoice in the LORD, trusting in His promises and faithfulness, which brings true and lasting joy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of Ephraim as a "mighty man" encourage you in your personal walk with God?

2. In what ways can you experience the joy described as being "glad as with wine" in your daily life?

3. How can you ensure that your faith and joy in the LORD positively impact the next generation?

4. Reflect on a time when God restored joy in your life. How does this experience relate to the promises in Zechariah 10:7?

5. What practical steps can you take to rejoice in the LORD, even amidst challenging circumstances, as encouraged by this verse?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 40:31
This verse speaks of those who hope in the LORD renewing their strength, similar to the empowerment of Ephraim as a mighty man.

Psalm 104:15
Discusses wine that gladdens the heart, paralleling the joy described in Zechariah 10:7.

Jeremiah 31:13
Talks about turning mourning into joy, which aligns with the transformation of sorrow to rejoicing in Zechariah.

Joel 2:23-24
Describes the restoration and abundance that God promises, akin to the blessings and joy in Zechariah 10:7.

John 15:11
Jesus speaks of His joy being in us, which connects to the joy in the LORD mentioned in Zechariah.