Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 97

Righteousness and Glory of the Divine Government; Establishment of Christ's Kingdom.This psalm continues the message from the last one, declaring that the Lord

v. 2: The psalmist says, Clouds and thick darkness are all around him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne . Sometimes God’s ways are mysterious, and we do not always understand why He does things. But we can be sure that everything He does is perfectly just and right. His commandments and judgments are always fair (Psalm 45:6 ).

v. 3–5: The psalmist describes how God deals with His enemies: Fire goes before him and burns up his adversaries all around. His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles. The mountains melt like wax before the Lord

v. 6: The psalmist says, The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory . God’s righteousness is clear and bright, like the sky. The angels in heaven declare it, and everyone on earth can witness God’s glory, especially when the good news of Jesus is shared everywhere (Acts 2:5, 11 ).

v. 7: The psalmist warns, All worshipers of images are put to shame, who make their boast in worthless idols; worship him, all you gods! . Idol worship will be defeated and those who trust in false gods will be embarrassed. God’s kingdom brings the end of idolatry, just as happened when the gospel spread through the world. Even the angels are called to worship Jesus (Hebrews 1:6 ).

Zion Rejoicing in the Reign of Christ.This section shows the difference between those who welcome Christ’s kingdom and those who oppose it. When Jesus reigns, it brings fear and trembling to His enemies, but brings joy and happiness to His people. Zion (God’s people) is glad when Christ wins, when His gospel spreads, and when evil is defeated. This joy is not only for the leaders in Jerusalem, but also for all God’s people everywhere.v. 8: The psalmist writes, Zion hears and is glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoice, because of your judgments, O Lord

v. 9: The reason for this joy is, For you, O Lord

v. 10: The psalmist reminds, O you who love the Lord

v. 11: The psalmist encourages, Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart . God has prepared happiness and hope for those who follow Him. Even if we have to wait, God’s children can trust that joy will come, just like seed that will grow into a harvest. Those who are sincere in their faith will receive lasting gladness, even if they face sadness now (Psalm 126:5–6 ).

v. 12: He finishes, Rejoice in the Lord