1Why are the nations so angry?

Why do they 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 slavery to God.”

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,a on my holy mountain.”

7The king proclaims the LORD’s decree:

“The LORD said to me, ‘You are my son.b

Today I have become your Father.c

8Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance,

the whole earth as your possession.

9You will breakd 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,e 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!