Psalm 2:1-3 NIV
Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together
against the LORD and against his anointed, saying,
“Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.”
This song begins with a perplexing question. Why do nations conspire against the Lord? The simple answer is sin. We seek our own will and freedom. We imagine that God’s commands are a burden we wish not to bear. However, His commands give us true and lasting freedom and joy.
Any and all nations are in a dangerous place when they plot against the Lord. They assemble in agreement to oppose their common enemy: the Almighty God. Stirred up by emotions and circumstances they plan a vain strategy. It is futile to rebel, but individuals and nations often do it.
How different is this position from the one we saw in Psalm 1:3 of a fruitful, healthy tree.
Psalm 1:3 NIV
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.
Their target is not just the LORD but his Anointed One as well. This Anointed One is God’s Son! Our Savior, King, and Priest is often the target of criticism and blasphemy.
Acts 4:25-27 NIV
You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: “‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed one. ‘Indeed, Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.
Perhaps this week you were the target of a critic. When the criticism is untrue, run to the LORD and leave your heartache with Him. Jesus understands betrayal and the sharp words of critics! Keep your conscience clear with God and others.
Hebrews 4:15-16 NIV
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are– yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Be encouraged today, my fellow soldiers of Christ!
Pastor Rick