As those of us in the United States look forward to our national day of Thanksgiving, let us consider the One worthy of our thanks! Psalm 97 does just that as it directs our attention to the fast-approaching day when our Lord will sit on His earthly throne in all His glory. It reminds us that, with His coming comes a rule of righteousness and judgment (v.2) that will melt and burn anything we have treasured other than God Himself (vv.5,7). Having abandoned all else (v.10), we will be those able to give thanks—for gladness will dominate our minds (v.11) because we will be consumed with an awareness of His holiness (v.12).
- The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof.
- Clouds and darkness are round about Him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of His throne.
- A fire goeth before Him, and burneth up His enemies round about.
- His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled.
- The hills melted like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the LORD of the whole earth.
- The heavens declare His right-eousness, and all the people see His glory.
- Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship Him, all ye gods.
- Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD.
- For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.
- Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: He preserveth the souls of His saints; He delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.
- Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.
- Rejoice in the LORD, ye right-eous; and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness.
Let us be ready for our Lord's rapidly approaching return by today giving thanks for His holiness, as well as His love and grace.
