Contradiction with Exodus 34:6
This verse describes God as merciful and gracious, which contrasts with the destructive imagery of fire in Psalms 97:3.
Exodus 34:6: And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Contradiction with Isaiah 45:7
This verse says God creates peace, whereas Psalms 97:3 depicts consuming fire.
Isaiah 45:7: I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these [things].
Contradiction with 1 John 4:8
This verse states that God is love, seemingly at odds with the consuming fire imagery in Psalms 97:3.
1 John 4:8: He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
Contradiction with Hosea 11:9
This verse emphasizes God's mercy and unwillingness to destroy, contradicting the consuming fire of Psalms 97:3.
Hosea 11:9: I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not return to destroy Ephraim: for I [am] God, and not man; the Holy One in the midst of thee: and I will not enter into the city.
Contradiction with Isaiah 42:3
This verse speaks of gentleness and not breaking a bruised reed, contrasting with the destruction alluded to in Psalms 97:3.
Isaiah 42:3: A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. [smoking: or, dimly burning] [quench: Heb. quench it]
Paradox #1
The contradiction could be that fire does not act as an intelligent force, nor does it independently surround or consume enemies. In science, fire is a chemical reaction that requires fuel, oxygen, and heat, and does not target individuals or act with purpose.