Psalm 97 - Modern English Version

¹ The Lord reigns; let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be joyful!

² Clouds and darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.

³ Fire goes before Him and burns up His enemies all around.

⁴ His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles.

⁵ The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the Lord of all the earth.

⁶ The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the peoples see His glory.

⁷ Let all who serve graven images be put to shame, who boast of 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 above all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods.

¹⁰ You who love the Lord, hate evil! He preserves the souls 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, you righteous, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name!