Psalm 97
BSB
Let the Earth Rejoice
1The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice;
let the distant shores be glad.
2Clouds and darkness surround Him;
righteousness and justice are His throne’s foundation.
3Fire goes before Him
and consumes His foes on every side.
4His lightning illuminates the world;
the earth sees and trembles.
5The mountains melt like wax
at the presence of the LORD,
before the Lord of all the earth.
6The heavens proclaim His righteousness;
all the peoples see His glory.
7All worshipers of images are put to shame—
those who boast in idols.
Worship Him, all you gods!
8Zion hears and rejoices,
and the towns of Judah exult
because of Your judgments, O LORD.
9For You, O LORD, are Most High over all the earth;
You are exalted far above all gods.
10Hate evil, O you who love the LORD!
He preserves the souls of His saints;
He delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11Light shines on the righteous,
gladness on the upright in heart.
12Rejoice in the LORD, you righteous ones,
and praise His holy name.
Introduction
Psalms 97
This psalm dwells upon the same subject, and is set to the same tune, with the foregoing psalm. Christ is the Alpha and the Omega of both; they are both penned, and are both to be sung to his honour; and we make nothing of them if we do not, in them, make melody with our hearts to the Lord Jesus. He it is that reigns, to the joy of all mankind (Psa 97:1); and his government speaks, I. Terror to his enemies; for he is a prince of inflexible justice and irresistible power (Psa 97:2-7). II. Comfort to his friends and loyal subjects, arising from his sovereign dominion, the care he takes of his people, and the provision he makes for them (Psa 97:8-12). In singing this psalm we must be affected with the glory of the exalted Redeemer, must dread the lot of his enemies, and think ourselves happy if we are of those that "kiss the son."
Cross-references: Ps 97:1 · Ps 97:2 · Ps 97:8