Isaiah 42:10
Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise from the ends of the earth. This verse echoes the call to worship found in Psalm 96.

Revelation 15:4
Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. This passage reinforces the theme of God's holiness and the universal call to worship.

1 Chronicles 16:23-33
This passage parallels Psalm 96 and provides additional context for the psalm's themes of worship and God's reign.A Call to Worship
Psalm 96:1-2 begins with an invitation to Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. This call emphasizes the importance of worship as a response to God's greatness and a means of proclaiming His salvation daily.

Proclaiming God's Glory
Verses 3-6 highlight the need to Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples. Worship is not just a personal act but a public declaration of God's mighty works and His supremacy over all other gods.

The Majesty of God
The psalmist describes the Lord as great and greatly to be praised (v. 4) and emphasizes His splendor and majesty. This section reminds us of God's unmatched power and the reverence due to Him.

Universal Call to Worship
In verses 7-9, the psalm extends the call to worship to all families of nations, urging them to ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name. Worship is a universal act that transcends cultural and national boundaries.

The Lord's Reign
Verses 10-13 proclaim the Lord's reign and His coming judgment. The psalmist assures us that God will judge the world with righteousness and truth, providing hope and assurance of His just rule.Renew Your Worship
Consider incorporating new songs and expressions of worship in your personal and communal worship times to keep your praise fresh and vibrant.

Share God's Deeds
Look for opportunities to share testimonies of God's work in your life with others, declaring His glory and wonderful deeds.

Cultivate Reverence
Reflect on God's majesty and holiness in your daily life, allowing these attributes to inspire awe and reverence in your worship.

Engage in Global Worship
Participate in or support missions and ministries that aim to spread the gospel and encourage worship among all nations.

Trust in God's Justice
In times of uncertainty, find comfort in the assurance that God reigns and will judge the world with righteousness and truth.1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure of the psalm, referred to as the one deserving of worship and praise. The psalm emphasizes His glory, strength, and holiness. The Hebrew root for "LORD" is יהוה (YHWH), the sacred name of God.

2. All the Earth
This phrase calls upon the entire world to sing a new song to the LORD, indicating that all people and nations are invited to worship Him.

3. Families of the Nations
This term refers to the various peoples and ethnic groups of the world, urging them to ascribe glory and strength to the LORD.

4. The Heavens
The psalm personifies the heavens as rejoicing, highlighting the cosmic scope of God's majesty.

5. The Sea and All that Fills It
The sea and its contents are called to resound in praise, symbolizing the entirety of creation joining in worship.

6. The Fields and Everything in Them
The fields and their produce are depicted as exulting, further emphasizing the theme of creation's praise.

7. The Trees of the Forest
These are described as singing for joy, illustrating the natural world's response to God's coming to judge the earth.1. Earth
The psalm begins with a call to "Sing to the LORD, all the earth" (Psalm 96:1). The term "earth" (Hebrew: אֶרֶץ, 'erets) signifies the entire world, emphasizing the universal scope of worship and praise due to God.

2. Nations
The psalm instructs to "Declare His glory among the nations" (Psalm 96:3). "Nations" (Hebrew: גּוֹיִם, goyim) refers to all peoples outside of Israel, highlighting the inclusivity of God's majesty and the call for all ethnic groups to recognize His sovereignty.

3. Peoples
Similarly, the psalm mentions "His wonderful deeds among all peoples" (Psalm 96:3). "Peoples" (Hebrew: עַמִּים, 'amim) is a term that can refer to various groups or communities, reinforcing the idea that God's works are to be proclaimed universally.

4. Heavens
The psalm declares, "The LORD made the heavens" (Psalm 96:5). "Heavens" (Hebrew: שָׁמַיִם, shamayim) refers to the sky or the celestial realm, underscoring God's creative power and authority over all creation.

5. Sea
The psalm calls for the sea to "resound, and all that fills it" (Psalm 96:11). "Sea" (Hebrew: יָם, yam) represents the vast and powerful bodies of water, often seen as symbols of chaos that are under God's control.

6. Fields
It also mentions, "Let the fields exult, and all that is in them" (Psalm 96:12). "Fields" (Hebrew: שָׂדַי, sadeh) symbolize the agricultural lands and the abundance of God's provision.

7. Trees of the Forest
The psalm concludes with, "Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy" (Psalm 96:12). "Trees of the forest" (Hebrew: עֲצֵי הַיָּעַר, 'atzei hayaar) are often used in biblical poetry to represent the natural world joining in praise to God.1. Call to Sing a New Song
"Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth." (Psalm 96:1)
The Hebrew word for "new" (חָדָשׁ, chadash) implies freshness or renewal, indicating a call for a fresh expression of worship.

2. Proclaim His Salvation
"Sing to the LORD, bless His name; proclaim His salvation day after day." (Psalm 96:2)
The term "salvation" (יְשׁוּעָה, yeshuah) refers to deliverance or victory, emphasizing the continuous declaration of God's saving acts.

3. Declare His Glory Among the Nations
"Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples." (Psalm 96:3)
"Glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) signifies honor and splendor, highlighting the universal scope of God's majesty.

4. Recognition of the LORD's Greatness
"For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods." (Psalm 96:4)
The Hebrew word for "feared" (יָרֵא, yare) conveys reverence and awe, underscoring God's supremacy over other deities.

5. Denouncement of Idols
"For all the gods of the nations are idols, but it is the LORD who made the heavens." (Psalm 96:5)
"Idols" (אֱלִילִים, elilim) are described as worthless or non-entities, contrasting with the creative power of the LORD.

6. Ascription of Glory and Strength
"Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength." (Psalm 96:7)
The repetition of "ascribe" (הָבוּ, havu) emphasizes the act of attributing honor and power to God.

7. Call to Worship in Holiness
"Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth." (Psalm 96:9)
"Holiness" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) refers to sacredness, inviting worshipers to approach God with reverence and purity.

8. Proclamation of the LORD's Reign
"Say among the nations, 'The LORD reigns.' The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved; He will judge the peoples with equity." (Psalm 96:10)
The declaration of God's reign (מָלַךְ, malak) affirms His sovereign rule and just governance.

9. Call for Creation to Rejoice
"Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice; let the sea resound, and all that fills it." (Psalm 96:11)
This event invites all of creation to participate in the joy of God's reign, reflecting the interconnectedness of creation.

10. Anticipation of the LORD's Coming Judgment
"Let all creation rejoice before the LORD, for He comes, He comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in His faithfulness." (Psalm 96:13)
The Hebrew word for "judge" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) indicates a fair and righteous assessment, highlighting God's commitment to justice and truth.

1. Sing a New Song to the Lord
Psalm 96:1 encourages us to "Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth." This is a call to refresh our worship and praise, reminding us that our relationship with God is dynamic and ever-growing. Just as we enjoy new experiences and discoveries in life, our worship should reflect the fresh mercies and blessings we receive daily. Let your heart be filled with gratitude and express it through new songs of praise.

2. Declare His Glory Among the Nations
Verse 3 urges us to "Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples." This is a powerful reminder of our mission to share the good news of God's greatness and love with everyone. Whether through words, actions, or lifestyle, let your life be a testament to His glory, inspiring others to seek Him.

3. The Lord is Great and Worthy of Praise
Psalm 96:4 states, "For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods." Recognizing God's greatness is foundational to our faith. When we acknowledge His supreme power and majesty, our perspective shifts, and we find peace and strength in His sovereignty. Let this truth fuel your worship and reverence for Him.

4. Worship the Lord in the Splendor of Holiness
Verse 9 calls us to "Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth." Worship is not just a ritual but a profound encounter with the holy and perfect God. Approach Him with awe and reverence, allowing His holiness to transform your heart and mind, leading you to live a life that reflects His purity.

5. The Lord Reigns
Psalm 96:10 proclaims, "Say among the nations, 'The LORD reigns.' The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved." This declaration reassures us of God's unchanging rule over the universe. In a world full of uncertainty, we can find stability and hope in the fact that God is in control. Trust in His eternal reign and let it bring you peace.

6. Let the Heavens Rejoice and the Earth Be Glad
Verse 11 invites creation to join in the celebration: "Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice; let the sea resound, and all that fills it." This imagery reminds us that all of creation is a testament to God's glory. As stewards of His creation, we are called to care for it and join in the chorus of praise that echoes throughout the universe.

7. The Lord Comes to Judge the Earth
Psalm 96:13 tells us, "For He comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in His faithfulness." God's judgment is not something to fear but to anticipate with hope. His justice is perfect, and His faithfulness ensures that all wrongs will be made right. Live with the assurance that God's righteous judgment will prevail.

8. Ascribe to the Lord the Glory Due His Name
Verse 8 encourages us to "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and enter His courts." Recognize and honor God for who He is and what He has done. Our offerings, whether of time, resources, or talents, are expressions of our gratitude and acknowledgment of His worthiness. Let your life be an offering that glorifies His name.

9. Fear the Lord Above All Gods
Psalm 96:5 reminds us, "For all the gods of the nations are idols, but it is the LORD who made the heavens." In a world filled with distractions and false idols, we are called to fear and revere the one true God. Place your trust in Him alone, knowing that He is the Creator and sustainer of all things.

10. Let All Creation Rejoice Before the Lord
Finally, verse 12 paints a picture of universal joy: "Let the fields exult, and all that is in them. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy." This is a beautiful reminder that our joy in the Lord is not just personal but communal. As we rejoice in His presence, we join with all creation in a symphony of praise, celebrating His goodness and love. Let your life be a reflection of this joy, inviting others to experience the same.

1. Call to Worship and Sing a New Song
Psalm 96 begins with an exhortation to "Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth" (Psalm 96:1). The Hebrew word for "new" (חָדָשׁ, chadash) implies freshness and renewal, encouraging believers to continually offer fresh praise to God.

2. Proclaim God's Salvation and Glory
The psalmist urges the faithful to "Proclaim His salvation day after day" and "Declare His glory among the nations" (Psalm 96:2-3). The Hebrew root for "salvation" (יְשׁוּעָה, yeshu'ah) emphasizes deliverance and victory, highlighting the importance of sharing God's redemptive work.

3. God's Supremacy Over Idols
The psalm contrasts the LORD's greatness with the worthlessness of idols, stating, "For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods" (Psalm 96:4). The Hebrew term for "feared" (יָרֵא, yare) conveys reverence and awe, underscoring God's unmatched sovereignty.

4. Creation's Testimony to God's Majesty
The psalm acknowledges the LORD as the Creator, declaring, "Splendor and majesty are before Him; strength and beauty fill His sanctuary" (Psalm 96:6). The Hebrew words for "splendor" (הוֹד, hod) and "majesty" (הָדָר, hadar) reflect the divine attributes evident in creation.

5. Universal Call to Worship
A call is extended to all families of nations to "Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength" and "Bring an offering and enter His courts" (Psalm 96:7-8). The Hebrew verb for "ascribe" (יָהַב, yahab) suggests giving due recognition to God's power and honor.

6. Holiness and Reverence in Worship
The psalm emphasizes worship in holiness, instructing, "Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth" (Psalm 96:9). The Hebrew word for "holiness" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) signifies sacredness, calling for reverent and pure worship.

7. Proclamation of God's Reign and Justice
The psalmist declares, "Say among the nations, 'The LORD reigns.' The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved; He will judge the peoples with equity" (Psalm 96:10). The Hebrew root for "judge" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) indicates God's role as a fair and righteous ruler.

8. Creation's Joyful Response to God's Coming
The psalm concludes with a vision of creation rejoicing, as "Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice; let the sea resound, and all that fills it" (Psalm 96:11). This imagery reflects the anticipation of God's righteous judgment and the restoration of creation.1. Worship and Praise of God
Psalm 96 emphasizes the importance of worship and praise, calling believers to "Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth" (Psalm 96:1). The Hebrew word for "sing" (שִׁיר, ^shiyr^) underscores the act of joyful expression and celebration of God's majesty.

2. Proclamation of God's Salvation
The psalm encourages the declaration of God's salvation, stating, "Proclaim His salvation day after day" (Psalm 96:2). The Hebrew root for "proclaim" (בָּשַׂר, ^basar^) implies bringing good news, highlighting the continuous sharing of God's redemptive work.

3. God's Sovereignty and Glory
The text declares God's supreme authority and splendor: "For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods" (Psalm 96:4). The Hebrew word for "feared" (יָרֵא, ^yare^) conveys reverence and awe, acknowledging God's unmatched power and majesty.

4. Rejection of Idolatry
The psalm contrasts the living God with idols, stating, "For all the gods of the nations are idols, but it is the LORD who made the heavens" (Psalm 96:5). The term "idols" (אֱלִילִים, ^elilim^) refers to worthless or empty entities, emphasizing the futility of worshiping anything other than the true Creator.

5. Call to All Nations
There is a universal call for all peoples to recognize God's glory: "Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples" (Psalm 96:3). The Hebrew word for "nations" (גּוֹיִם, ^goyim^) indicates the inclusivity of God's message, extending beyond Israel to all ethnic groups.

6. Anticipation of God's Righteous Judgment
The psalm looks forward to God's righteous judgment: "He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in His faithfulness" (Psalm 96:13). The Hebrew root for "judge" (שָׁפַט, ^shaphat^) suggests a fair and just evaluation, assuring believers of God's equitable governance.

7. Creation's Response to God
The psalm describes creation's response to God's majesty: "Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea resound, and all that fills it" (Psalm 96:11). This theme highlights the interconnectedness of creation and its role in reflecting God's glory. Praise for God's Greatness
Thank God for His majesty, power, and the wonderful deeds He has done in your life and throughout history.

A Heart of Worship
Ask God to renew your heart and inspire a deeper, more vibrant worship in your life.

Boldness in Proclamation
Pray for courage and opportunities to declare God's glory and share His salvation with others.

Unity in Worship
Seek God's guidance in fostering unity among believers and encouraging worship that transcends cultural and national boundaries.

Trust in God's Justice
Pray for faith and assurance in God's righteous judgment and His sovereign rule over the world.

1. Psalm 96:5 says “all the gods of the nations are idols,” so how can this claim be reconciled with historical evidence of other thriving religious traditions and deities?

2. Psalm 96:10 states “the world is firmly established, it cannot be moved”; how does this align with modern astronomical findings that the Earth orbits the Sun and rotates on its axis?

3. Psalm 96:3 instructs declaring God’s glory “among the nations”; is there any archaeological or historical record indicating ancient Israel actively spread these teachings beyond its borders?

4. Psalm 96:5 proclaims the Lord “made the heavens,” so how does this fit with current cosmological theories such as the Big Bang and the vast timeline of cosmic evolution?

5. Psalm 96:13 promises God “will judge the world in righteousness”; how do we reconcile this with other biblical passages depicting different criteria or timelines for divine judgment?

1. How can you personally "sing a new song" to the Lord in your daily life?

2. How does understanding God's "marvelous works" influence your view of Him?

3. What does it mean to proclaim God's glory among the nations in today's context?

4. What attributes of God stand out to you in this Psalm and why?

5. How does acknowledging God as the greatest above all gods impact your worship?

6. What does "strength and beauty in His sanctuary" mean to you?

7. How can you give glory and strength to God in your everyday life?

8. What does it mean to "worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness"?

9. How can the call to worship in verses 7-9 be embodied in your personal worship and church gatherings?

10. How does the Psalmist's proclamation of God's reign inspire your trust in Him?

11. What does God's righteousness and truth mean to you, and how does it shape your perspective of the world?

12. How do you interpret the portrayal of nature's joy at the coming of the Lord?

13. How does the concept of God's judgment as described in this Psalm align with your understanding of God?

14. How does the expectation of God's judgment influence your actions and decisions?

15. How does Psalm 96 inform your understanding of God's relationship with the rest of creation?

16. In what ways does the glory of creation reflect the glory of God?

17. How can you apply the lessons from this Psalm in dealing with the challenges in your life?

18. In what ways can Psalm 96 inspire you to participate in environmental stewardship?

19. How can this Psalm influence your interaction with people from different nations and cultures?

20. Reflect on how the themes of this Psalm can affect your view of global events and the interconnectedness of all people under God's reign.