“The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!” Psalm 97:1
The nations of the world have seen all manner of leaders—presidents, kings, queens, and rulers. These kingdoms are defined by the reign of the one in power. Earthly leaders are met with varying levels of love and respect by their subjects.
However, the Lord’s reign is sovereign over all the kingdoms of this world. Trustworthy. Unending. Impenetrable. The earth and her inhabitants should rejoice, and the coastlands of the world should be glad.
“Clouds and thick darkness are all around him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. Fire goes before him and burns up his adversaries all around. His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles. The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth.” Psalm 97:2-5
A scene of powerful reign is painted by the psalmist. God is framed by clouds and thick darkness. Mystery. However, under his throne is a firm foundation built of righteousness and justice. No adversary can stand up to this stately ruler. His righteousness breathes fire that consumes evil. He illumines the world with lightning.
The whole earth witnesses the scene and fears his name. Even the rock solid mountains dissolve in the presence of our king and ruler.
“The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory.” Psalm 97:6
Ecclesiastes 3:11 reminds us, “…he has put eternity into man’s heart…” No one is without excuse. The very firmament declares his beauty. And every man and woman has had eternity woven into their hearts. His glory is on display and the willing observe his goodness.
“All worshipers of images are put to shame, who make their boast in worthless idols; worship him, all you gods!” Psalm 97:7
Those who choose to worship other gods are without excuse. Yes, Christ’s disciples have a commission to preach the gospel to all nations. However, no one is without excuse. All who worship other gods are shamed. Anyone who gives their allegiance to worthless idols is shamed. Every knee will bow, including the gods worshipped by those who do not fear God now.
“Zion hears and is glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoice, because of your judgments, O Lord. For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.” Psalm 97:8-9
God’s people, who are surrounded by those who do not worship their God, find solace in truth. They stand patiently and peacefully on this declaration. Their God is high over the whole earth and is over all would-be gods.
“O you who love the Lord, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked. Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.” Psalm 97:10-11
And yet, we know only in part, and we see in a mirror dimly (1 Corinthians 13:12). We must stay faithful to the Lord and reject evil. By faith we know he delivers us from evil and preserves our souls. He gives enough light and joy for us all of our days.
Therefore, in the context of his rule and reign, we rejoice. We exclaim praises from grateful hearts. We extol his name.
“Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!” Psalm 97:12
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