Psalms 97

1 The Lord reigneth: let the earth be glad; let the multitude of isles rejoice.

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

2 Clouds and thick darkness are round about him: righteousness and justice are the support 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 round about his adversaries.

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

4 His lightnings give light to the world: the earth seeth it, and trembleth.

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

5 The mountains melt away 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 tell of his righteousness, and all the people his glory.

The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

7 Made ashamed shall be all that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: unto him bow down all the gods.

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

8 Zion heareth it, and rejoiceth; and glad are the daughters of Judah, because of thy decrees, O Lord.

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

9 For thou, O Lord, art the most high above all the earth: thou art greatly exalted 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 ye the evil: he preserveth the souls of his pious ones; out of the hand of the wicked he ever delivereth them.

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 joy for the upright in heart.

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

12 Rejoice, ye righteous, in the Lord, and give thanks to his holy memorial.

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