March 16
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THE LORD REIGNS
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, according to the ESV study bible commentary says that it is a hymn celebrating God’s kingship over all creation. It focuses on how God’s universal rule assures the faithful of his final victory over evil and idolatry. This victory involves God’s protection of his faithful ones from evildoers (v.10) and the Gentiles ultimately coming to know the true God (vv. 6-7). The assurance comes from biblical faith, and it produces a profound joy in those who embrace it (vv.11-12).
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ADORATION: We adore you O Christ and we bless your sovereignty.
CONFESSION: Forgive me each time I fail to bow down and surrender to your kingship.
THANKSGIVING: Thank you for reigning over me. It keeps me to remember my place in your kingdom.
SUPPLICATION: May all Christians submit and surrender to the only one true God.
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REFLECTION
• Share how God rules over your heart, mind, soul and body?
• Why is it important to recognize those who are in authority over us?