Psalms 97

1 For the same David, when his land was restored again to him. The Lord hath reigned, let the earth rejoice: let many islands be glad.

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

2 Clouds and darkness are round about him: justice and judgment are the establishment of his throne.

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

3 A fire shall go before him, and shall burn his enemies round about.

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

4 His lightnings have shone forth to the world: the earth saw and trembled.

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

5 The mountains melted like wax, at the presence of the Lord: at the presence of 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 declared his justice: and all people saw his glory.

The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

7 Let them be all confounded that adore graven things, and that glory in their idols. Adore him, all you his angels:

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

8 Sion heard, and was glad. And the daughters of Juda rejoiced, because of thy judgments, O Lord.

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

9 For thou art the most high Lord over all the earth: thou art exalted exceedingly 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 You that love the Lord, hate evil: the Lord preserveth the souls of his saints, he will deliver them out of the hand of the sinner.

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 is risen to the just, and joy to the right of heart.

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

12 Rejoice, ye just, in the Lord: and give praise to the remembrance of his holiness.

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