Rage Nation

“Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?” Psalm 2:1

There sure is a lot of noise in our world today. I have my laptop set to automatically open to a popular news channel’s webpage, so I can occasionally catch up on the headlines. Wow. It seems like almost every one is a rant against the President, or some politician that someone doesn’t agree with. However, instead of just disagreeing with the person, they attack their motives or their character. Twitter and Instagram have ceased to be entertainment; they are now vehicles to spew hatred on those who have differing views.

The Psalmist questions the effectiveness of this kind of behavior. The word rage in the verse above literally means to cause a commotion, or to noisily assemble. Why do people do that, he asks? The second half of the verse hints toward the reason for his question. All of the ranting and raving, the plotting and scheming, the fighting and bickering are useless. What he is really saying is, “Why bother?” None of their rage, none of their commotion will amount to anything. In fact, God laughs at its futility (Psalm 2:4). He has, in fact, placed Jesus Christ on the throne of this earth (Psalm 2:6), and in due time every knee will bow to Him (Philippians 2:10-11).

Can I encourage you to not get caught up in the anger and tumult of our culture? Now–do not disengage! You and I are here on purpose, to share the grace and truth of the Gospel with those who need it. Be a good citizen. Pay your taxes (Matthew 22:21). Obey those who are in authority (Romans 13:1). And know that all things are in God’s hands.

-Pastor Mike