The Morning Devotional: Psalm 97
Season 11 | Edition 65
August 5, 2026
SUMMARY: The sermon explores Psalm 97 to highlight the absolute sovereignty and majestic reign of God over all creation. It contrasts the true God with false idols, emphasizing that general revelation displays His glory to everyone while special revelation calls the redeemed to specific worship. The text draws parallels between the psalm's imagery and the Sinai narrative, illustrating God's power and justice. Believers are urged to hate evil and rejoice in the Lord, recognizing Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of this divine kingship. The central message encourages a life of worship and obedience to the King who reigns supreme.
The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice;
let the many coastlands be glad!
2 Clouds and thick darkness are all around him;
righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him
and burns up his adversaries all around.
4 His lightnings light up the world;
the earth sees and trembles.
5 The mountains melt like wax before the Lord,
before the Lord of all the earth.
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness,
and all the peoples see his glory.
7 All worshipers of images are put to shame,
who make their boast in worthless idols;
worship him, all you gods!
8 Zion hears and is glad,
and the daughters of Judah rejoice,
because of your judgments, O Lord.
9 For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth;
you are exalted far above all gods.
10 O you who love the Lord, hate evil!
He preserves the lives of his saints;
he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11 Light is sown for the righteous,
and joy for the upright in heart.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous,
and give thanks to his holy name!
(Psalm 97:1-12, ESV)