Psalm 97

1 The Lord reigns;

A Song of Praise to the Sovereign LordLet the earth rejoice; Let the multitude of isles be glad!

2 Clouds and darkness surround Him; Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.3 A fire goes before Him, And burns up His enemies round about.4 His lightnings light the world; The earth sees and trembles.5 The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord, At the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.6 The heavens declare His righteousness, And all the peoples see His glory.7 Let all be put to shame who serve carved images, Who boast of idols. Worship Him, all you gods.8 Zion hears and is glad, And the daughters of Judah rejoice Because of Your judgments, O Lord.9 For You, Lord, are most high above all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods.10 You who love the Lord, hate evil! He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked.11 Light is sown for the righteous, And gladness for the upright in heart.12 Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.

PSALMS 97

The [Lord] Brings Justice

1 The [Lord] is King!
Tell the earth to celebrate
and all islands to shout.

2 Dark clouds surround him,
and his throne is supported
by justice and fairness.

3 Fire leaps from his throne,
destroying his enemies,

4 and his lightning is so bright
that the earth sees it
and trembles.

5 Mountains melt away like wax
in the presence of the [Lord]
of all the earth.

6 The heavens announce,
“The [Lord] brings justice!”
Everyone sees God's glory.

7 Those who brag about
the useless idols they worship
are terribly ashamed,
and all the false gods
bow down to the [Lord].

8 When the people of Zion
and of the towns of Judah
hear that God brings justice,
they will celebrate.

9 The [Lord] rules the whole earth,
and he is more glorious
than all the false gods.

10 Love the [Lord]
and hate evil!
God protects his loyal people
and rescues them
from violence.

11 If you obey and do right,
a light will show you the way
and fill you with happiness.

12 You are the [Lord]'s people!
So celebrate and praise
the only God.