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Psalm 97:1-7
The LORD reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice. Clouds and thick darkness surround him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. Fire goes before him and consumes his foes on every side. His lightning lights up the world; the earth sees and trembles. The mountains melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth. The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all peoples see his glory. All who worship images are put to shame, those who boast in idols – worship him, all you gods!

The Psalms are filled with songs of praise and thanksgiving. These passages lift our spirits and encourage our hearts. The Psalms also contain teaching about God’s judgment. Today’s passage expresses this solemn truth.

Clouds and thick darkness are pictures of God’s awesome judgment. God’s reign is based on righteousness (everything He does is right) and justice (everything He does is fair). The fire, the lightning, the trembling, the melting like wax show that He is not one to trifle with. One day all will see God in His full glory. Those who worship idols will be put to shame.

Scripture says that it is appointed unto man once to die and after that the judgment (Hebrews 10:27). One day every knee will bow to proclaim that Jesus is Lord (Philippians 2:11). The judgment is coming. The question is: Are you ready? If you would like to be sure, make the following prayer your own:

Lord, I know that I will die one day and then stand before You. I want to stand before You as Your child. Today I trust in Jesus, who paid the penalty for my sin on the cross. I trust in Jesus as the One who took my judgment in His body on the cross. I trust in Jesus alone as the only way to have an eternal relationship with You – the One who is righteous and just. In Jesus’ name. Amen.