1Why do the nations rage? Why do the people waste their time with futile plans?
2The 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 this slavery."
4But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them.
5Then in anger he rebukes them, terrifying them with his fierce fury.
6For the LORD declares, "I have placed my chosen king on the throne in Jerusalem, my holy city."
7The king proclaims the LORD’s decree: "The LORD said to me, ‘You are my son. Today I have become your Father.
8Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the ends of the earth as your possession.
9You will break them with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots.’"
10Now then, you kings, act wisely! Be warned, you rulers of the earth!
11Serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling.
12Submit to God’s royal son, or he will become angry, and you will be destroyed in the midst of your pursuits––for his anger can flare up in an instant. But what joy for all who find protection in him!