Psalm 97

It took me less than 2 minutes to read this psalm. I noticed that the first line sets the tone for the rest of the psalm; worship God for he is in control. Because of his righteousness displayed under his reign we have many reasons to celebrate. Even those who reject God can celebrate because he continues to lavish his gifts upon those who he loves. And God does indeed love everyone. Though Christians are the recipients of the full measure of his grace, I don't believe that we are God's favorite people. All people share equally in God's loving kindness. The murderer, the cheat, and the saint are equally precious in God's sight. But those who have surrendered to God's grace are recipients of greater gifts; his eterna presence and, as this psalm points out, his protection and deliverence (vs 10). Those are the greater gifts for the redeemed.
Stuart