Looking at present world situations, it's easy to wonder, "What is going on?!" But some knowledge of world history and cultural anthropology reveals such turmoil has existed for centuries, even millenniums.
Access to information and events across the world makes a good part of the world's population more aware of global events. Is it increasing? It's hard to say when compared to what took place in former times.
One thing is known. Rulers of people, nations, and empires have sought supreme rule, even world domination, since ancient times. Sadly, people have been slaughtered and displaced throughout history, though it seems worse now than ever.
It can still makes you wonder, "Is there some deeper cause or reason to it all?"
Scripture
Why do the nations gather together? Why do their people devise useless plots? Kings take their stands. Rulers make plans together against the Lord and against his Messiah by saying, “Let’s break apart their chains and shake off their ropes.” [vss 1-3]
The one enthroned in heaven laughs. The Lord makes fun of them. Then he speaks to them in his anger. In his burning anger he terrifies them by saying, “I have installed my own king on Zion, my holy mountain.” [vss 5-6]
I will announce the Lord’s decree. He said to me: “You are my Son. Today I have become your Father. Ask me, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance and the ends of the earth as your own possession. You will break them with an iron scepter. You will smash them to pieces like pottery.” [vss 7-9]
Now, you kings, act wisely. Be warned, you rulers of the earth! Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, or he will become angry and you will die on your way because his anger will burst into flames. Blessed is everyone who takes refuge in him. [vss 10-12]
(Psalm 2:1-12 GW) [Context– Psalm 2]
Key phrase— “You are my Son. Today I have become your Father"
[bctt tweet="You are my Son. Today I have become your Father"]
Digging Deeper...
Review the Scriptures above as you answer the following questions
What is the question at the beginning of this psalm? What does it indicate or reveal?
What is God's response towards the nations, kings, and rulers? What does He say to them?
What decree does the Lord give and what is announced in this decree? Who is spoken of?
What final warning is given to the kings and rulers? What assurance and promise is given?
Reflection...
Ultimately, all human rebellion is aimed at God. Most kings and rulers may not think that, especially those who claim to be atheists, but it's true.
In ancient days, many emperors saw themselves as God, even God incarnate. One of the greatest of the ancient emperors, Nebuchadnezzar, had his own encounter with God's sovereign rule of the world (see Daniel 4).
This psalm is considered a Messianic psalm because of verses 7-9. This is confirmed in the books of Acts (Ac 13:33) and Hebrews (Heb 1:5; 5:5).
All of humanity's rebellion and clamoring for power will come to nothing and be subdued. But in the midst of tyranny and terror on earth, one promise holds true—
Blessed is everyone who takes refuge in him [the Lord].
Make it personal...
Read through the Scripture text again as you consider and answer these questions
Do present concerns about terrorism and global unrest worry you?
Are you able to see beyond what happens near you, nationally, and globally through the perspective of God's sovereignty?
Looking at current events and conditions, are you prompted to trust the Lord more, or less?
Have you experienced the assurance and blessing of a personal relationship with God? If so, how has this helped change your perspective on world events?
Would you like a free study guide for your study of Psalms?