Psalms 97

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

For David, when his land is established. The Lord reigns, let the earth exult, let many islands rejoice.

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

Cloud, and darkness are round about him; righteousness and judgement are the establishment of his throne.

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

Fire shall go before him, and burn up his enemies round about.

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

His lightnings appeared to the world; the earth saw, and trembled.

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

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

6 The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

The heavens have declared his righteousness, and all the people have seen his glory.

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

Let all that worship graven images be ashamed, who boast of their idols; worship him, all you his angels.

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

Sion heard and rejoiced; and the daughters of Judea exulted, because of your judgements, O Lord.

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

For you are Lord most high over all the earth; you are greatly exalted above all gods.

10 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.

You that love the Lord, hate evil; the Lord preserves the souls of his saints; he shall deliver them from the hand of sinners.

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

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

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

Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous; and give thanks for a remembrance of his holiness.