Psalms 97

1 The Lord is King, let the earth have joy; let all the sea-lands be glad.

The LORD reigns! Let the earth rejoice! Let the multitude of islands be glad!

2 Dark clouds are round him; his kingdom is based on righteousness and right judging.

Clouds and darkness are around him. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.

3 Fire goes before him, burning up all those who are against him round about.

A fire goes before him, and burns up his adversaries on every side.

4 His bright flames give light to the world; the earth saw it with fear.

His lightning lights up the world. The earth sees, and trembles.

5 The mountains became like wax at the coming of the Lord, at the coming of the Lord of all the earth.

The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.

6 The heavens gave out the news of his righteousness, and all the people saw his glory.

The heavens declare his righteousness. All the peoples have seen his glory.

7 Shamed be all those who give worship to images, and take pride in false gods; give him worship, all you gods.

Let all them be shamed who serve engraved images, who boast in their idols. Worship him, all you gods!

8 Zion gave ear and was glad; and the daughters of Judah were full of joy, because of your decisions, O Lord.

Zion heard and was glad. The daughters of Judah rejoiced because of your judgments, LORD.

9 For you, Lord, are most high over the earth; you are lifted up over all other gods.

For you, LORD, are most high above all the earth. You are exalted far above all gods.

10 You who are lovers of the Lord, be haters of evil; he keeps the souls of his saints; he takes them out of the hand of sinners.

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 shining on the lovers of righteousness, and for the upright in heart there is joy.

Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.

12 Be glad in the Lord, you upright men; praising the memory of his holy name.

Be glad in the LORD, you righteous people! Give thanks to his holy Name.