‏ Psalms 97

* The Lord Jesus reigns in power that cannot be resisted. (1-7)

His care of his people, and his provision for them. (8-12)1-7 Though many have been made happy in Christ, still there is

room. And all have reason to rejoice in Christ's government.

There is a depth in his counsels, which we must not pretend to

fathom; but still righteousness and judgment are the habitation

of his throne. Christ's government, though it might be matter of

joy to all, will yet be matter of terror to some; but it is

their own fault that it is so. The most resolute and daring

opposition will be baffled at the presence of the Lord. And the

Lord Jesus will ere long come, and put an end to idol worship of

every kind. 8-12 The faithful servants of God may well rejoice and be glad,

because he is glorified; and whatever tends to his honour, is

his people's pleasure. Care is taken for their safety. But

something more is meant than their lives. The Lord will preserve

the souls of his saints from sin, from apostacy, and despair,

under their greatest trials. He will deliver them out of the

hands of the wicked one, and preserve them safe to his heavenly

kingdom. And those that rejoice in Christ Jesus, and in his

exaltation, have fountains of joy prepared for them. Those that

sow in tears, shall reap in joy. Gladness is sure to the upright

in heart; the joy of the hypocrite is but for a moment. Sinners

tremble, but saints rejoice at God's holiness. As he hates sin,

yet freely loves the person of the repentant sinner who believes

in Christ, he will make a final separation between the person he

loves and the sin he hates, and sanctify his people wholly,

body, soul, and spirit