Introduction
Psalm 97: As king, God rules the whole universe which he created. On earth, God rules the nations. In this chapter, the writer celebrates God as one who rules with righteousness and justice.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 97:12b (GNT)
Remember what the holy God has done, and give thanks to him.
Read
97 The Lord is king! Earth, be glad!
Rejoice, you islands of the seas!
2 Clouds and darkness surround him;
he rules with righteousness and justice.
3 Fire goes in front of him
and burns up his enemies around him.
4 His lightning lights up the world;
the earth sees it and trembles.
5 The hills melt like wax before the Lord,
before the Lord of all the earth.
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness,
and all the nations see his glory.
7 Everyone who worships idols is put to shame;
all the gods bow down[a] before the Lord.
8 The people of Zion are glad,
and the cities of Judah rejoice
because of your judgments, O Lord.
9 Lord Almighty, you are ruler of all the earth;
you are much greater than all the gods.
10 The Lord loves those who hate evil;[b]
he protects the lives of his people;
he rescues them from the power of the wicked.
11 Light shines on the righteous,
and gladness on the good.
12 All you that are righteous be glad
because of what the Lord has done!
Remember what the holy God has done,
and give thanks to him.
Reflect
In this psalm, the writer encourages us to “remember what the holy God has done” and to give him thanks. What memories do you have of what the Lord has done for you? What will you thank God for today?
Pray
Lord God Almighty, you are my king. Reign in my heart forever. May the light of your love shine on me. I praise your glorious name and thank you for _____________________. Amen.
And now, join us in praying for the Middle East Bible Societies. Sovereign God, in times of war and peace, the Bible Societies in the Middle East tirelessly continue their mission, offering the hope and healing found in your holy Word. In recent months, they have increased their Trauma Healing ministry focus and are working with relief agencies operating in the region to respond to urgent needs. We pray for their safety, wisdom, and perseverance and, with the ongoing support from Bible-A-Month Partners, we pray that every Bible shared and every contact made will lead people to encounter Jesus. In your holy name, we pray. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 98: A psalm that celebrates God as a righteous judge and ruler of the world.
