“Truth for Truckers” *May 7, 2014* Psalm 97 “The
LORD reigns”
The opening declaration sets up the theme
of this God-exalting Psalm. Once again the human author is un-named but the
inspiration of the Holy Spirit is obvious by the way the Lord’s character and
works are spoken of with great grandeur and excellence. His over-powering presence is described in
vivid detail. The initial fact of His ruling in the earth gives the earth
reason to rejoice and be glad in (v.1).
Then in (v.2-5) the description of His
presence is underscored:”Clouds and
darkness are round about Him; righteousness and judgment are the habitation of
His throne. A fire goes before Him, and burns 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.”
Instruction and various responses are
recorded in (v.6-9): 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, are high above all the earth: Thou are
exalted far above all gods”
The remainder of the Psalm is directed toward us, the
Believers. In response to this powerful description of our God the last three
verses center upon three commands:
“Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: He preserves the
souls of His saints; He delivers 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.”(v.10-12)
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