Psalms 97

1 The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the distant shores be glad.

The Lord reigns! Let the earth be glad, and distant lands be full of joy!

2 Clouds and darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are His throne’s foundation.

He is surrounded by clouds and thick darkness; his throne is founded on justice and right.

3 Fire goes before Him and consumes His foes on every side.

Flames proceed him, burning up his enemies on every side.

4 His lightning illuminates the world; the earth sees and trembles.

His flashes of lightning light up the world; the earth watches and trembles.

5 The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth.

The mountains melt like wax in the presence of the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth.

6 The heavens proclaim His righteousness; all the peoples see His glory.

The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

7 All worshipers of images are put to shame— those who boast in idols. Worship Him, all you gods!

All those who worship idols are humiliated, those who are proud of their idols—for all “gods” bow down before him.

8 Zion hears and rejoices, and the towns of Judah exult because of Your judgments, O LORD.

Jerusalem hears this and celebrates; all the towns of Judah are happy because of your judgments, Lord.

9 For You, O LORD, are Most High over all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods.

For you, Lord, are the highest of all, ruling over the whole earth; your position is far above any other god.

10 Hate evil, O you who love the LORD! He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them from the hand of the wicked.

You who love the Lord, hate evil! He protects the lives of those who are faithful to him, and saves them from the power of wicked people.

11 Light shines on the righteous, gladness on the upright in heart.

Light shines on those who do good, giving joy to those who live right.

12 Rejoice in the LORD, you righteous ones, and praise His holy name.

Be happy in the Lord, you who do right, and thank him for his holy nature!