Rex H. Henderson

PSALM 97

The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof. Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne. A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about. His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled. The hills melted like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory. Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods. Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD. For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods. Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked. Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. (Psalm 97, KJV)

Psalm 97

Our Awesome God

Here, the frightening, awesome side
Of God’s kingly rule is emphasized.
We should be joyful; evil will be subdued,
And he will reign in perfect righteousness.

The sovereign God reigns, and we proclaim
This wonderful truth in praise, rejoicing, and
Blessing. It fills the whole world with joy.
“Let the earth rejoice; let the isles be glad.”

God is awe inspiring. When he appeared,
At Sinai people trembled, Moses trembled
With fear, Isaiah cried, “Woe is me!” Ezekiel
“fell facedown.” And Daniel turned pale.”

Habakkuk wrote,
         “I heard and my heart pounded,
           my lips quivered at the sound;
           decay crept into my bones,
           and my legs trembled.

Since God is the most high of all the earth,
There is great strength and comfort for
Believers amid every storm of life, knowing
We have an living Savior who provides.

Reaching the highest note in praise,
The author turn to the entire world
That they should praise God for the
Greatness of God while we may.

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