FRAMEWORKS:
Psa 97: Rejoice in the Lord
[Preliminary
Comments: Another untitled psalm that extols the Lord,
calling the earth to recognise Hos greatnes and rejoice in Him
[v.1]. His holiness is expressed in the ways He separates Himself
from His creation and the impact it has on His creation [v.2-6].
His greatness and worth of worship is contrasted with idol worship
[v.7-9]. Finally there is a call to His faithful ones to stand
out [v.10] for light and joy are theirs [v.11], with a final call
to rejoice in Him [v.12]. Another simple call to rejoice in God.]
v.1
Declaration of the Lord's sovereign rule & a call to rejoice
in Him
v.1
The
Lord
reigns,
let the earth be glad;
let the distant shores rejoice.
v.2-6
Expressions
of His Holiness and it's impact on the earth
v.2
Clouds
and thick darkness surround him;
righteousness and justice are the foundation
of his throne.
v.3
Fire
goes before him
and consumes his foes on every side.
v.4
His
lightning lights up the world;
the earth sees and trembles.
v.5
The
mountains melt like wax before the Lord,
before the Lord of all the earth.
v.6
The
heavens proclaim his righteousness,
and all peoples see his glory.
v.7-9
Image worship contrasted with worship of Him who is Lord over
all
v.7
All
who worship images are put to shame,
those who boast in idols –
worship him, all you gods!
v.8
Zion
hears and rejoices
and the villages of Judah are glad
because of your judgments, Lord.
v.9
For
you, Lord
,
are the Most High over all the earth;
you are exalted far above all gods.
v.10-12
Blessings on the righteous & a call to rejoice in Him
v.10
Let
those who love the Lord
hate
evil,
for he guards the lives of his faithful
ones
and delivers them from the hand of the
wicked.
v.11
Light
shines on the righteous
and joy on the upright in heart.
v.12
Rejoice
in the Lord,
you who are righteous,
and praise his holy name.
[Additional
Comments: Go back through these verses and identify
what the psalm says about the Lord and then what it says about
His people.]
Continue
to Psa 98