“Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot a vain thing? The kings of the earth take a stand, and the rulers take counsel together, against Yahweh, and against his Anointed, saying, Let’s break their bonds apart, and cast their cords from us (Ps. 2:1-3, WEB).”
Heavenly Father, the sins of the nations are mounting up–the world is full of anger and bitterness, pointing fingers at one another. Yet, their greatest rage is in defiance towards your holy name. Even while they are angry with one another, they still counsel together and conspire against you Yahweh, who is the Supreme Creator of the universe.
They come together against the Holy God of Scripture, believing they have the power and audacity to rebel against the Mighty Lord. And we know, O God, that you are sovereign over the nations. Our confidence is ultimately in you–there is no empire, king, or nation, not even the entire world, that can stand against you. For you are the King of kings and the Lord of lords.
“He who sits in the heavens will laugh. The Lord will have them in derision. Then he will speak to them in his anger, and terrify them in his wrath: Yet I have set my King on my holy hill of Zion (Ps. 2:4-6, WEB).”
Sovereign king, it is humorous to think created beings believe they can outwit the living God. It is uncanny at the same time to fathom the arrogance and pride in the human heart. How could a king or nation, no matter how great or powerful, think they can stand against the one who spoke the galaxies and solar systems into existence?
Holy Father, you will not tolerate wickedness or pride. You will speak to them in your anger and wrath. They will not be able to escape your swift judgment–for you are an eternal, omnipotent, consuming fire. I beckon you, have mercy on us. Reveal your majesty and power to mortal men and women, so that they may understand how futile it is to rebel against your perfect will.
“I will tell of the decree: Yahweh said to me, You are my son. Today I have become your father. Ask of me, and I will give the nations for your inheritance, the uttermost parts of the earth for your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron. You shall dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel (Ps. 2:7-9).”
Everlasting Father, you are the great I am. You are Yahweh. You sent your son, Jesus Christ, into this world, to save humanity from their sins. Thank you for extending grace to us, allowing for God’s chosen ones to receive the inheritance. Let us be eager to pray that our names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, and that we are spiritual descendants of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Oh Father, you are a God of peace and love. You desire that all people come to the knowledge of the truth and repent of their sins. At the same time, you are a righteous judge. A judge who will condemn the guilty to Hell. You will destroy the wicked and they will be broken like a potter’s vessel. O God, please be merciful to your creation.
I think of Jesus, who on the cross, extended forgiveness and grace to those nailing him on the cross, saying, “Father, forgive them. For they do not know of what they are doing.” May you continue to show this unconditional love towards sinners and open our minds and hearts to these sobering truths.
“Now therefore be wise, you kings. Be instructed, you judges of the earth. Serve Yahweh with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Give sincere homage to the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish on the way, for his wrath will soon be kindled. Blessed are all those who take refuge in him (Ps. 2:10-12).”
Lord Almighty, impart wisdom unto us. Instruct us to serve you with fear and rejoice with trembling. Humble us so that we may be sincere in our approach towards you. Precious redeemer, rescue us from sin and death. Do not let us perish, but let us take refuge in you.
Yahweh, the only true refuge in this world is you. All the temporary, earthly security like money, fame, and health will soon disappear like the mist in the morning dew. Therefore, we look to you, King Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Praise be to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen!
Prayer commentary by Chad A. Damitz
Conform to Jesus 
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