Psalm 97 and 98 both describe what praise and worship are supposed to look and sound like, and whom and where it should come from.
The entire earth and everything in it are encouraged to shout and sing about the great deeds that God has done. The songwriters call on all the nations, both God's people and those who follow other gods. Musicians, sea creatures, and the waters themselves are exhorted to make praise. Humans, animals, and inanimate objects should all take turns declaring the power and deliverance of the Lord. Rivers clap, and mountains sing.
It's a great reminder that all of creation was meant to rejoice over God, their maker.
Psalm 99 and 100 are songs that celebrate the reign of God through establishing a king over Israel, his relationship with Moses and Aaron as priests, and Samuel the prophet.
God's people worship his reign and his holiness.
Psalm 101 is written from the perspective of a king who carries important and varied decisions. He promised to use loyalty and justice in all of his dealings with those who reside in his kingdom. This ruler exalts integrity and honesty and allows these types of people to live alongside and under the care of the king.
Psalm 102 comes from the heart of someone who faces oppression and trouble, so much that he experiences pain and sickness both on the outside and inside of his body. It paints the picture of a mourner or person enduring extreme grief.
A portion of that grief is due to the writer's longing for Zion to be restored and recognized as the city of God. When this happens, the splendor and reputation of the Lord will be established. This is coming from the heart of one who lives as a prisoner and one who is condemned to die until the promise of a rebuilt Israel is fulfilled.
This new era will include both the petitioner and their children for generations to come.
Mathew James
