Psalms 97

1 The Lord is King, let the earth have joy; let all the sea-lands be glad.

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

2 Dark clouds are round him; his kingdom is based on righteousness and right judging.

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

3 Fire goes before him, burning up all those who are against him round about.

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

4 His bright flames give light to the world; the earth saw it with fear.

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

5 The mountains became like wax at the coming of the Lord, at the coming 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 gave out the news of his righteousness, and all the people saw his glory.

The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

7 Shamed be all those who give worship to images, and take pride in false gods; give him worship, all you gods.

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

8 Zion gave ear and was glad; and the daughters of Judah were full of joy, because of your decisions, O Lord.

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

9 For you, Lord, are most high over the earth; you are lifted up over all other gods.

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

10 You who are lovers of the Lord, be haters of evil; he keeps the souls of his saints; he takes them out of the hand of sinners.

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 shining on the lovers of righteousness, and for the upright in heart there is joy.

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

12 Be glad in the Lord, you upright men; praising the memory of his holy name.

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