Psalms 97

1 THE Lord reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof.

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

2 Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne.

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

3 A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about.

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

4 His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled.

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

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

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

6 The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.

The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

7 Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.

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

8 Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah 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, Lord, art high above all the earth: thou art 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 Ye that love the Lord, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of 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 is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.

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

12 Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.

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