PSALM 97\n\n 1\tThe Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; \nlet the distant shores rejoice. \n2\tClouds and thick darkness surround him; \nrighteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. \n3\tFire goes before him \nand consumes his foes on every side. \n4\tHis lightning lights up the world; \nthe earth sees and trembles. \n5\tThe mountains melt like wax before the Lord, \nbefore the Lord of all the earth. \n6\tThe heavens proclaim his righteousness, \nand all the peoples see his glory. \n7\tAll who worship images are put to shame, \nthose who boast in idols\u2014 \nworship him, all you gods! \n8\tZion hears and rejoices \nand the villages of Judah are glad \nbecause of your judgments, O Lord. \n9\tFor you, O Lord, are the Most High over all the earth; \nyou are exalted far above all gods. \n10\tLet those who love the Lord hate evil, \nfor he guards the lives of his faithful ones \nand delivers them from the hand of the wicked. \n11\tLight is shed upon the righteous \nand joy on the upright in heart. \n12\tRejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, \nand praise his holy name.