Psalm 96:12

All of nature will experience renewal in God’s presence (Psalms 65:13; 72:6, 16; Isaiah 44:23; 55:12; Romans 8:21–22).

The psalmist urges all of creation to respond with joy to the news of the Lord’s coming. Compare a similar theme in Psalm 98:7–9.

• This psalm establishes the Lord’s universal kingship (see Psalm 93) and prepares for the coming of the Lord to bring justice and righteousness to the world. The psalmist invites everyone to worship the Lord (Psalm 96:1–3), the glorious Creator of the earth (96:4–6), because only he deserves worship (96:7–9). The universe joins in praise as the righteous Judge establishes a new order (Psalm 96:10–13).

• This psalm (along with Psalm 105:1–15; 106:1, 47–48) is included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chronicles 16:1–43.

These psalms challenge the doubts created by the exile (see Psalm 89) and answer the questions asked in Psalm 90:11, 13. The Lord has established a kingdom (Psalm 93) that is characterized by:

• punishment of the wicked (Psalm 94),

• respectful obedience among his people (Psalm 95),

• justice for the poor (Psalm 96),

• celebration in Zion (Psalm 97),

• salvation for Israel (Psalm 98),

• holiness (Psalm 99), and

• praise (Psalm 100).