Verses 1-3
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Similar to Psalm 96, we are encouraged to sing a to God anew. Refer to the commentary on this Psalm for additional details.
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In this passage, the reason for our praise to God is His victory and the salvation He has won for us. Notice that He gained the victory, and that the victory is for Him. We didn't gain the victory, nor could we; and the victory was not really for us. See Isaiah 59:16.
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In other words, our salvation is ultimately for God's glory, not merely our own benefit. We deserve damnation; God was not obligated to save us. He chose to grant us mercy. So, in bringing salvation, He has revealed His own righteousness (Romans 3:24-26). He has saved us for His name's sake, to make His power known (Psalm 106:8).
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Do not see your salvation as all about you. Remember that it's all about God. Praise God for how He has shown His own love and power in bringing salvation, so that others will come to admire and believe in Him also.
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Verses 4-9
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God's judgment is something to rejoice in, since His judgment will mean restoration for the earth, and even the earth groans in anticipation of this coming day (Romans 8:21-23).
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Rivers, seas, and even hills do their part to rejoice in the coming day of judgment. The crashing of waves, the roaring of rushing waters, the lush green of fertile hills...these are parts of creation praising God by accomplishing their God-given purpose (see Psalm 96 for more details).
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Our response should be to join with creation, at the very least, in being joyful. Music can be included because it has a way of increasing one's joy. Don't despise things in creation that help you to have joy. Give yourself time and room to take joy in what God has made, and use that joy to give praise and thanks to God in your words, prayers, and in your singing.
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