Psalms 97

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 The mountains melt like wax in the presence of the Lord, before 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 proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

The heavens declare his righteousness. All the peoples 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 them be shamed who serve engraved images, who boast in their idols. Worship him, all you gods!

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

Zion heard and was glad. The daughters of Judah rejoiced because of your judgments, 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, LORD, are most high above all the earth. You are exalted far 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 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 shines on those who do good, giving joy to those who live right.

Light is sown 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!

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