Please read Psalm 97 (12 verses)

It is an abiding blessing to us as people, that the Lord reigns. If He does not reign, then we are nothing. If the Lord is not in control, then we are in a most vulnerable state. It is He who keeps us all and provides lovingly for all He has made. He decides our blessing and our trouble and has promised to protect His faithful ones. This does not mean we are shielded from difficulties but are protected by His grace from the ravages of them.

The whole earth shouts of the glory of God and the distant shores rejoice. Clouds surround Him and holy fire goes out against all those who pit themselves against Him. He sends the thunder and lightning which frightens, and the mighty mountains melt like wax before Him. Everyone sees His wonderful works of creation and we are left without excuse to magnify His name as the Creator God.

Similarly with spiritual life. We see the mighty deliverance of the Lord in the salvation of souls, brought back to life from the pit of death and made alive to God and His goodness. We see the falsehood in the idols of our age or culture and that they are dead and unable to rescue us from spiritual slavery.

The people redeemed by God rejoice in Him and lift His victorious name high in their praises. They see the handiwork of the Lord and see that He is holy. They know they are delivered from the evil of their own hearts and now delight in the righteousness of the Lord, exalting His name above all and recognising that the Lord guards their souls forever.