The Nations and God’s Anointed

1Why are the nations in an uproar,

and their people involved in a vain plot?

2As the kings of the earth take their stand

and the rulers conspire together against the LORD and his anointed one, they say,a

3“Let us tear off their shackles from us,b

and cast off their chains.”

4He who sits in the heavens laughs;

the Lord scoffs at them.

5In his anger he rebukes them,

and in his wrath he terrifies them:

6“I have set my king on Zion,

my holy mountain.”

The Anointed King Speaks

7Let me announce the decree of the LORD

that he told me:

“You are my son,

today I have become your father.

8Ask of me, 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,

you will shatter them like pottery.”

10Therefore, kings, act wisely!

Earthly rulers, be warned!

11Serve the LORD with fear,

and rejoice with trembling.

12Kissc the son before he becomesd angry,

and you die where you stand.e

Indeed, his wrath can flare up quickly.

How blessed are those who take refuge in him.