Psalm 2

1 Why do the nations rebel?
Why are the countries devising plots that will fail?

2 The kings of the earth form a united front;
the rulers collaborate
against the Lord and his anointed king.

3 They say, “Let’s tear off the shackles they’ve put on us!
Let’s free ourselves from their ropes!”

4 The one enthroned in heaven laughs in disgust;
the Lord taunts them.

5 Then he angrily speaks to them
and terrifies them in his rage, saying,

6 “I myself have installed my king
on Zion, my holy hill.”

7 The king says, “I will announce the Lord's decree. He said to me:
‘You are my son! This very day I have become your father!

8 Ask me,
and I will give you the nations as your inheritance,
the ends of the earth as your personal property.

9 You will break them with an iron scepter;
you will smash them like a potter’s jar!’”

10 So now, you kings, do what is wise;
you rulers of the earth, submit to correction!

11 Serve the Lord in fear!
Repent in terror!

12 Give sincere homage!
Otherwise he will be angry,
and you will die because of your behavior,
when his anger quickly ignites.
How blessed are all who take shelter in him!

PSALMS 2

The [Lord]'s Chosen King

1  t Why do the nations plot, t
and why do their people
make useless plans?t

2 The kings of this earth
have all joined together
to turn against the [Lord]
and his chosen king.

3 They say, “Let's cut the ropes
and set ourselves free!”

4 In heaven the [Lord] laughs
as he sits on his throne,
making fun of the nations.

5 The [Lord] becomes furious
and threatens them.
His anger terrifies them
as he says,

6 “I've put my king on Zion,
my sacred hill.”

7  t I will tell the promise
that the [Lord] made to me:
“You are my son, because today
I have become your father.

8 Ask me for the nations,
and every nation on earth
will belong to you.

9  t You will smash them
with an iron rod
and shatter them
like dishes of clay.”

10 Be smart, all you rulers,
and pay close attention.

11 Serve and honor the [Lord];
be glad and tremble.

12 Show respect to his son
because if you don't,
the [Lord] might become furious
and suddenly destroy you.t
But he blesses and protects
everyone who runs to him.