Psalm 97

When God comes

The LORD has a unique presence

1  The LORD is king.
So let’s all celebrate.
May islands erupt in joy.
2  Clouds dense and dark gather around him
As he sits on the throne of goodness and justice.
3  Fire scorches a path in front of him,
Burning his enemies to ash.
4  He unleashes his lightning,
Which lights up the earth.
People watch it
And tremble with fear.
5  In the presence of the LORD
Mountains melt like hot wax,
In the presence of the LORD of the earth.
6  Heaven declares he’s good.
People of earth have seen the proof
Of the honor he deserves.
7  Braggers who worship wood-carved idols
Stand dumbfounded, distressed, and ashamed.
Gods of wood, take a knee and worship him.
8  Jerusalem[1] hears the news and celebrates.
The whole region of Judah joins in.
Everyone’s happy because the LORD
Will finally bring justice to earth.
9  You are the LORD who runs this world,
There’s no king above you.
You get the honor no fake god deserves.

Follow the light

10  If you love the LORD, hate evil.
The LORD watches his people as they live their lives.
He protects them from rotten souls who would hurt them.
11  Like seed thrown in a spray on a field
Light is sown on the path of good souls.
To brighten the way as they go.
12  Good people, be happy about the LORD.
And thank him for who he is.

Notes

Intro Notes for Psalms

Intro Notes for Book 4 of 5 in Psalms

197:8

Literally “Zion,” a term of endearment, and another name for Jerusalem. It’s a bit like “The Big Apple” for New York City, “The City of Love” for Paris, and “Sin City” for Las Vegas, though some wouldn’t call that a term of endearment.