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Psalm 97(Good News Translation)
Sunday
November 22, 2009
Called to be Free to Give God Thanks and Praise
Introduction
Psalm 97: Today's psalm praises God as the supreme ruler over all the earth. All of nature responds to God, from fire and lightening to hills and heavens. God is declared to be far superior to other gods and idols. The psalmist says that God protects and cares for the righteous.
Today's Scripture: Psalm 97:12b
Remember what the holy God has done, and give thanks to him.
How is this Scripture passage speaking to me today?
Today's Reading
1The LORD is king! Earth, be glad! Rejoice, you islands of the seas!2Clouds and darkness surround him; he rules with righteousness and justice.3Fire goes in front of him and burns up his enemies around him.4His lightning lights up the world; the earth sees it and trembles.5The hills melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth.6The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the nations see his glory.7Everyone who worships idols is put to shame; all the gods bow down before the LORD.8The people of Zion are glad, and the cities of Judah rejoice because of your judgments, O LORD.9LORD Almighty, you are ruler of all the earth; you are much greater than all the gods.10The LORD loves those who hate evil; he protects the lives of his people; he rescues them from the power of the wicked.11Light shines on the righteous, and gladness on the good.12All you that are righteous be glad because of what the LORD has done! Remember what the holy God has done, and give thanks to him.Reflect
Reread 97:2-5. God's appearance in these natural forces is meant to symbolize God's powerful presence. How is God revealed in this psalm? How do "false gods" respond? What does the psalmist say happens to the righteous and good? What is your favorite verse of this psalm? Why?
Pray
Lord God, you are indeed King! With the islands of the seas, the heavens of the sky, and all the nations, I praise you and celebrate your glory. Thank you for the joy and gladness you bring to my life. Help me shine your light of love on others. Amen.
Prayer Concern
Those who are recovering from surgery
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