INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 97
Psalm 97 is another of the ROYAL PSALMS written by David, but unlike Psalm 96 and 98 its theme is more related to that of GOD'S KINGLY RULE rather than the coming of His Son Jesus.
"The effects of His judgement are declared. His adversaries are destroyed, His glory is revealed and His people are filled with joy." G. Campbell Morgan
Like many Psalms used for Jewish Religious Festivals, Psalm 97 is a CALL TO WORSHIP our God who reigns over all, as we consider His GOODNESS, JUSTICE, POWER AND SOVEREIGNTY. But what exactly is WORSHIP? David definition is to:
"Magnify the Lord and to let us exalt His name together." Psalm 34:8
We often have big worries, questions and problems; and we need to "draw near to God" and "enlarge our vision of Him".
"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands you sinners and purify your hearts you double minded...... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up." James 4:8&10 (NKJV)
Next time you are in Church or in a place you worship, allow the songs, the music, the prayers and devotions to transform you into the person God wants to be - HIS RIGHTEOUS CHILD, FILLED WITH HIS LIGHT AND JOY, JUST LIKE YOUR FATHE GOD AND GREAT KING.
REJOICING IN HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS & JUSTICE - Read Verses 1-6
Like Psalm 93, this Psalm begins suddenly and wonderfully with a declaration of GOD'S ROYALTY. He's not a useless idol, but and OMNIPOTENT GOD who CREATED ALL THINGS. He is "HOLY and IRRESTIBLE".
"The LORD REIGNS, HE IS CLOTHED WITH MAJESTY; the Lord is clothed, He has girded Himself with strength." Psalm 93:1 (NJKV)
"RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE are the foundation of His throne." Psalm 97:1 (NIV)
"We know that in His government there can be no departure from RIGHTEOUSNESS, no deflection OF JUSTICE. This should be the inspirational of perpetual songs and worship." Morgan
The lightning flash and the melting wax seem to be a representation of GOD'S DELIVERANCE and the TRIUMPH OVER EVIL and He SAVED HIS PEOPLE.
INSTRUCTING THE PEOPLE - Read Verses 7-11
Those who worship idols and not their ROYAL GOD should be ashamed. We need to praise and extol our God far above all else. The reason for Zion's joy is God's rule and instruction.
The Psalmist David instructed His people in righteousness and justice just like his Father God has done. He had preserved the souls of His children who were upright, and protecteded the lives of those who were willing to obey Him.
"Let those who love the Lord hate evil, for He guards the lives of the faithful ones, and delivers them from the hands of the wicked." Psalm 97:10 (NIV)
David describes many ways that God blesses His people:
* God cared for His peole.
* He delivered them from the wicked.
"They are very dear to Him. He preserves them, very safe to His bosum" Charles Spurgeon
* He sent a light for their path.
* He gave them gladness.
"Let the light and goodness be faithfully cultivated till their whole body shall be full of light and the whole soul full of happiness." Adam Clarke
"Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart." Psalm 97:11 (NIV)
CONCLUSION - Read Verse 12
"Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise His holy name." Psalm 97:12 (NIV)
Let your joy be full in God and be expressed in praise and thanksgiving, as we remember His holiness.
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