[1] Why do the nations plan rebellion? Why do people make their useless plots? [2] Their kings revolt, their rulers plot together against the LORD and against the king he chose. [3] "Let us free ourselves from their rule," they say; "let us throw off their control." [4] From his throne in heaven the Lord laughs and mocks their feeble plans. [5] Then he warns them in anger and terrifies them with his fury. [6] "On Zion, my sacred hill," he says, "I have installed my king." [7] "I will announce," says the king, "what the LORD has declared. He said to me: 'You are my son; today I have become your father. [8] Ask, and I will give you all the nations; the whole earth will be yours. [9] You will break them with an iron rod; you will shatter them in pieces like a clay pot.'" [10] Now listen to this warning, you kings; learn this lesson, you rulers of the world: [11] Serve the LORD with fear; tremble [12] and bow down to him; or else his anger will be quickly aroused, and you will suddenly die. Happy are all who go to him for protection.
