Psalm 2

The Lord’s Chosen King

1 Why are the nations so angry? Why are the people making useless plans?

2 The kings of the earth prepare to fight, and their leaders make plans together
against the Lord and his appointed one.

3 They say, “Let’s break the chains that hold us back and throw off the ropes that tie us down.”

4 But the one who sits in heaven laughs; the Lord makes fun of them.

5 Then the Lord warns them and frightens them with his anger.

6 He says, “I have appointed my own king to rule in Jerusalem on my holy mountain, Zion.”

7 Now I will tell you what the Lord has declared:
He said to me, “You are my son. Today I have become your father.

8 If you ask me, I will give you the nations; all the people on earth will be yours.

9 You will rule over them with an iron rod. You will break them into pieces like pottery.”

10 So, kings, be wise; rulers, learn this lesson.

11 Obey the Lord with great fear. Be happy, but tremble.

12 Show that you are loyal to his son, or you will be destroyed by his anger,
because he can quickly become angry. But happy are those who trust him for protection.

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!