Psalm 229

2:1 Why1 do the nations rebel?2

Why3 are the countries4 devising5 plots that will fail?6

2:2 The kings of the earth7 form a united front;8

the rulers collaborate9

against the Lord and his anointed king.10

2:3 They say,11 “Let’s tear off the shackles they’ve put on us!12

Let’s free ourselves from13 their ropes!”

2:4 The one enthroned14 in heaven laughs in disgust;15

the Lord taunts16 them.

2:5 Then he angrily speaks to them

and terrifies them in his rage,17 saying,18

2:6 “I myself19 have installed20 my king

on Zion, my holy hill.”

2:7 The king says,21 “I will announce the Lord’s decree. He said to me:22

‘You are my son!23 This very day I have become your father!

2:8 Ask me,

and I will give you the nations as your inheritance,24

the ends of the earth as your personal property.

2:9 You will break them25 with an iron scepter;26

you will smash them like a potter’s jar!’ ”27

2:10 So now, you kings, do what is wise;28

you rulers of the earth, submit to correction!29

2:11 Serve30 the Lord in fear!

Repent in terror!31

2:12 Give sincere homage!32

Otherwise he33 will be angry,34

and you will die because of your behavior,35

when his anger quickly ignites.36

How blessed37 are all who take shelter in him!38