What is the meaning of Psalm 97:12? Rejoice in the LORD The psalm opens with a clear command: “Rejoice in the LORD.” • This joy is rooted not in fluctuating circumstances but in the unchanging character of God (Psalm 16:11). • Philippians 4:4 echoes the same imperative—“Rejoice in the Lord always”—showing this is a timeless expectation for believers. • Because God’s Word is accurate and literal, we can obey this call with confidence, knowing that genuine, lasting joy flows from a relationship with Him (Nehemiah 8:10; 1 Peter 1:8). you righteous ones The command is directed to “you righteous ones.” • In Scripture, righteousness is imputed by faith (Romans 3:22) and evidenced by a life that aligns with God’s standards (Psalm 32:11). • Through Christ, believers have been “made righteous” (2 Corinthians 5:21), so the call applies to every redeemed person, not just spiritual elites. • Walking in righteousness keeps the heart sensitive to joy; unconfessed sin, by contrast, smothers it (Psalm 66:18; 1 John 1:9). and praise His holy name Rejoicing is inseparable from praise: “and praise His holy name.” • God’s name sums up His character—holy, set apart, perfect (Psalm 99:3). • Praise is both verbal and practical: singing (Psalm 100:2), thanksgiving (Psalm 30:4), and daily obedience (Colossians 3:17). • Focusing on His holiness lifts our gaze above a fallen world and fuels worship that is “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). summary Psalm 97:12 calls every believer—made righteous by faith—to a life marked by joy in the Lord and active praise of His holy, set-apart name. The verse links identity (righteous ones) with action (rejoice, praise), inviting us to live every day in glad, grateful fellowship with the God who is forever worthy. |
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