The LORD Reigns

1The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice;

let the many coastlands be glad!

2Clouds and thick darkness are all round him;

righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.

3Fire goes before him

and burns up his adversaries all round.

4His lightnings light up the world;

the earth sees and trembles.

5The mountains melt like wax before the LORD,

before the Lord of all the earth.

6The heavens proclaim his righteousness,

and all the peoples see his glory.

7All worshippers of images are put to shame,

who make their boast in worthless idols;

worship him, all you gods!

8Zion hears and is glad,

and the daughters of Judah rejoice,

because of your judgements, O LORD.

9For you, O LORD, are most high over all the earth;

you are exalted far above all gods.

10O you who love the LORD, hate evil!

He preserves the lives of his saints;

he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.

11Light is sown97:11 Most Hebrew manuscripts; one Hebrew manuscript, Septuagint, Syriac, Jerome Light dawns for the righteous,

and joy for the upright in heart.

12Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous,

and give thanks to his holy name!