Psalm 2

Psalm 2

1 Why are the nations so angry?
Why do they waste their time with futile plans?2 The kings of the earth prepare for battle;
the rulers plot together
against the LORD
and against his anointed one.3 “Let us break their chains,” they cry,
“and free ourselves from slavery to God.”4 But the one who rules in heaven laughs.
The Lord scoffs at them.5 Then in anger he rebukes them,
terrifying them with his fierce fury.6 For the Lord declares, “I have placed my chosen king on the throne
in Jerusalem,t on my holy mountain.”7 The king proclaims the LORD’s decree:
“The LORD said to me, ‘You are my son.t
Today I have become your Father.t8 Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance,
the whole earth as your possession.9 You will breakt them with an iron rod
and smash them like clay pots.’”10 Now then, you kings, act wisely!
Be warned, you rulers of the earth!11 Serve the LORD with reverent fear,
and rejoice with trembling.12 Submit to God’s royal son,t or he will become angry,
and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities—
for his anger flares up in an instant.
But what joy for all who take refuge in him!

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!