January 2
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PSALM 97
The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!
2 Clouds and thick darkness are all around him;
righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him and burns up his adversaries all around.
4 His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles.
5 The mountains melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth.
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory.
7 All worshipers of images are put to shame,
who make their boast in worthless idols; worship him, all you gods!
8 Zion hears and is glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoice,
because of your judgments, O LORD.
9 For you, O LORD, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.
10 O you who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his saints;
he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11 Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.
12 Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!
– Psalm 97:1-12
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PSALM 97 LIGHT AND JOY FOR THE UPRIGHT IN HEART
A poem inspired by this psalm by ILMA
For all those who love the Lord and keep his laws
There will be an abundance of light and joy
For the Lord God goes before him and destroys his foes
All idolaters will be punished and they will be his footstool
As you live for the Lord, he will lead you to paths of righteousness
His grace and mercy will abound and the faithful will receive his blessings
O you, who are lovers of God, keep on focusing on his promises
He will deliver you from all the tactics of the devil and all unrighteousness
Rejoice in the Lord and his presence will always be with you
Be the light to all so that they may praise and glorify Go.
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REFLECTION
• How is being guided by God’s Spirit the only way for us to continually walk in light and have joy in our hearts?