Psalm 2 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 2 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Why do the nations conspire, and the peoples plot in vain?
Verse 2The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and his anointed, saying,
Verse 3"Let us burst their bonds asunder, and cast their cords from us."
Verse 4He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord has them in derision.
Verse 5Then he will speak to them in his wrath, and terrify them in his fury, saying,
Verse 6"I have set my king on Zion, my holy hill."
Verse 7I will tell of the decree of the Lord: He said to me, "You are my son; today I have begotten you.
Verse 8Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession.
Verse 9You shall break them with a rod of iron, and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel."
Verse 10Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth.
Verse 11Serve the Lord with fear, with trembling
Verse 12kiss his feet, or he will be angry, and you will perish in the way; for his wrath is quickly kindled. Happy are all who take refuge in him.
Devotion
“Why are the nations in an uproar? Why do the peoples mutter empty threats?” (Psalm 2:1) These words from the psalm resonate with today’s world: nations are in conflict; the threat of climate change; gun violence; immigration; human rights violations; the list could go on. Many of the issues we face are centered in power and control—who determines what is right and wrong. The psalmist proclaims that God laughs at our attempts for power and control. We are tempted like Adam and Eve as they listen to the snake telling them that if they eat of the fruit we can be like God. The psalmist reminds us to submit to the Lord and let God be God. The psalm closes with the promise: “Happy are all who take refuge in God!”
Prayer
Loving God, you are our refuge and strength. Help us always to fear, love, and trust you above all else. Amen.