Psalm 97

Published: July 17, 2020, 7 a.m.

We are continuing our series of reflections on the Psalms. Each day we will upload a new reflection to the website. We hope and pray that you will find them helpful and that they bring hope during this season. Click on these buttons to read the text of the psalm or listen to a recording of it. You can also listen to the reflection using the audio player below. Read Psalm 97  Listen to Psalm 97 Fire and Idols. The image of God and Fire is a consistent one through scripture. God speaks to Moses in the burning bush, a fourth figure appears in the fire with Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego in the book of Daniel and Isaiah is anointed by a burning coal to speak God’s word. Fire is seen as cleansing but also as a place of protection for God’s people. Within Psalm 97 God’s power is demonstrated through the use of fire. God’s power is so great that mountains will melt. The demonstration of God’s power is tied together with a warning against the use of idols. An idol is anything that is given the same power as God. God is mighty and powerful - no idol can compare! The psalm is both encouragement and a warning. Keep your eyes on God! Verse 11 is a reminder that light shines on the righteous. As followers of Jesus, we are made righteous through him and God’s light (fire!) shines upon us. Lord, would you help us keep our eyes on you.