Why Did the Nations Rage?

Pope Shenouda III reflects on the words of Psalm Two: “Why did the nations rage, and the peoples plot vain things,” explaining the astonishment of the Prophet David at humanity’s rebellion against God, even though God is the Creator who granted them existence, intellect, and strength.

Main Idea

The lecture focuses on the fact that man often stands against God through rebellion, complaint, or rejection of His commandments, while the real cause is usually within the person himself and not in God. Therefore, David described these thoughts as “vain.”

Spiritual Causes of Rebellion Against God

Pope Shenouda III explains that man’s rebellion against God may result from:

• Pride and the desire for independence from God.
• Submission to lusts and rejection of the divine commandment.
• Ignorance of God’s wisdom and providence.
• Weak relationship with God and lack of experiencing His love.

Results of Hostility Toward God

The reflection points out that those who oppose God lose their inner peace; therefore, the Psalm says: “The nations raged.” Distance from God leads to disturbance, fear, and lack of spiritual stability.

The Concept of True Freedom

Pope Shenouda explains that some people think God’s commandments are chains and bonds, while in reality they are the path to holiness, virtue, and eternal life. Connection with God does not take away a person’s freedom; rather, it leads him to life and salvation.

God’s Power Before Human Conspiracies

The reflection affirms that all conspiracies and persecutions directed against God or His children cannot prevail, because God is stronger than all human powers. Therefore, the Psalm says: “He who sits in the heavens shall laugh at them,” indicating the futility of man’s resistance to God.

The Spiritual Message

The lecture calls the believer not to complain against God or accuse Him unjustly, but to examine himself and know the true causes of weakness and falling. It also calls for trust in God’s power and holding firmly to the relationship with Him, because connection with God is connection with life, immortality, and eternal happiness.

Conclusion

The person who moves away from God because of pride, lust, or ignorance loses his inner peace, while the person connected to God receives peace, grace, and eternal life. Therefore, the Psalm calls for rejecting vain thoughts and holding fast to God’s love and trusting in His wisdom and power.

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