Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans? The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the Lord and against his anointed one. “Let us break their chains,” they cry, “and free ourselves from slavery to God.” But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them. Then in anger he rebukes them, terrifying them with his fierce fury. For the Lord declares, “I have placed my chosen king on the throne in Jerusalem, on my holy mountain.” The king proclaims the Lord’s decree: “The Lord said to me, ‘You are my son. Today I have become your Father. Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the whole earth as your possession. You will break them with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots.’” Now then, you kings, act wisely! Be warned, you rulers of the earth! Serve the Lord with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling. Submit to God’s royal son, 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!
Psalms 2:1-12 NLT
Many nations and people rage against the reign of God, seeing the Lord only as a killjoy. They long to be free from His rule and His rules. When your highest good is yourself, God will always be a hindrance. This psalm is a great reminder of how powerful God is. He is the King. No matter how much the nations or people rage against the Lord, His plan for goodness and justice will move forward. The Father anointed His Son to come to earth and reign. Jesus brings the Kingdom of God.
Sometimes people remember how loving God is but forget how powerful He is. Disobeying God carries consequences – it will hurt you and others. Be comforted that if you are walking with God—even through the hardest of times—you are walking with the King. He will reign forever. This is what gave comfort and confidence to the early Christians when they were being persecuted by government and religious leaders (Acts 4:23-31).
How does serving the Lord bring freedom? How can you focus more on following God than the world or your own desires?
