97:1 The a LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the b
multitude of isles be glad [thereof].
(a) He shows that where God reigns, there is all happiness
and spiritual joy.
(b) For the gospel will not only be preached in Judea, but
through all isles and countries.
97:2c Clouds and darkness [are] round about him:
righteousness and judgment [are] the habitation of his
throne.
(c) He is thus described to keep his enemies in fear, who
commonly contemn God's power.
97:4 His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and
d trembled.
(d) This fear does not bring the wicked to true obedience,
but makes them run away from God.
97:7e Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that
boast themselves of idols: worship him, f all [ye] gods.
(e) He signifies that God's judgments are ready to destroy
the idolatry.
(f) Let all who are esteemed in the world fall down before
him.
97:8 Zion heard, and was glad; and the g daughters of Judah
rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD.
(g) The Jews will have opportunity to rejoice that the
Gentiles are made partakers with them of God's favour.
97:10 Ye that h love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the
souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of
the wicked.
(h) He requires two things from his children: the one that
they detest vice, the other, that they put their trust
in God for their deliverance.
97:11i Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the
upright in heart.
(i) Though God's deliverance does not appear suddenly, yet
it is sown and laid up in store for them.
97:12 Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the
k remembrance of his holiness.
(k) Be mindful of his benefits and only trust in his
defence.
