Psalm 96:13 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.
In this verse, we are back in the Old Testament and reading interpretations of the Hebrew language. In the context, this verse is the conclusion of a joyful hymn that not only calls all creation to worship God, it also is prophetic in nature as it speaks of the final judgement. It is traditionally associated with David and the return of the Ark of Covenant to Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 16).
When we think about judgement in general or the final day of Judgement it usually is not viewed in a positive light. We see judgement as punishment, consequences for doing wrong. It is not usually viewed as a good thing. But the context of this passage calls people to rejoice in the coming Judgement, to see it as something beneficial and positive. The psalm begins by calling for the world to sing a new song of praise. It declares His glory. It is a celebration.
The verses leading up to our target verse all describe various aspects of nature rejoicing at the Lord’s coming. In it we see the skies, the trees, the seas, the fields all celebrating in His glory and return to this world. Our verse says let ALL creation rejoice, not just His people. All creation. Everything from people to plants to animals to His reign will be in a restored Edenistic harmony. Mankind will be saved from ruin. Justice will be restored. The King will reign in peace with His creation. All of this gives us reason to lift our hands and voices in praise.
In regard to word study, the Hebrew word for justice in this verse is shafat. It is defined as pronouncing sentence, vindicating, punishing, or governing. It reminds us that God will return to the earth to judge creation with His righteousness. He will return to judge the world in righteousness and His people in His faithfulness. And we see the phrase “for He comes” repeated, indicating great anticipation and excitement.
Join nature in celebrating with anticipation the return of our Lord and don’t fear the final judgement. Know that everything will be set right and balance will be restored.
Prayer: Lord, I eagerly anticipate the day of Your return and the righteous and holy Judgement that will be coming to all creation. May I spend the days until then living for You and preparing for that great day. Amen
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