‏ Psalms 96

* A call to all people to praise God. (1-9) God's government and

judgment. (10-13)1-9 When Christ finished his work on earth, and was received

into his glory in heaven, the church began to sing a new song

unto him, and to bless his name. His apostles and evangelists

showed forth his salvation among the heathen, his wonders among

all people. All the earth is here summoned to worship the Lord.

We must worship him in the beauty of holiness, as God in Christ,

reconciling the world unto himself. Glorious things are said of

him, both as motives to praise and matter of praise. 10-13 We are to hope and pray for that time, when Christ shall

reign in righteousness over all nations. He shall rule in the

hearts of men, by the power of truth, and the Spirit of

righteousness. His coming draws nigh; this King, this Judge

standeth before the door, but he is not yet come. The Lord will

accept the praises of all who seek to promote the kingdom of

Christ. The sea can but roar, and how the trees of the wood can

show that they rejoice we know not; but He that searches the

heart knows what is the mind of the Spirit, and understands the

words, the broken language of the weakest. Christ will come to

judge the earth, to execute just vengeance on his enemies, and

to fulfil his largest promises to his people. What then are we?

Would that day be welcome to us? If this be not our case, let us

now begin to prepare to meet our God, by seeking the pardon of

our sins, and the renewal of our souls to holiness