Psalms 127

1 A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain.

A Canticle in steps: of Solomon. Unless the Lord has built the house, those who build it have labored in vain. Unless the Lord has guarded the city, he who guards it watches in vain.

2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for bread to eat— for He gives sleep to His beloved.

It is in vain that you rise before daylight, that you rise up after you have sat down, you who chew the bread of sorrow. Whereas, to his beloved, he will give sleep.

3 Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward.

Behold, the inheritance of the Lord is sons, the reward is the fruit of the womb.

4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth.

Like arrows in the hand of the powerful, so are the sons of those who have been cast out.

5 Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. He will not be put to shame when he confronts the enemies at the gate.

Blessed is the man who has filled his desire from these things. He will not be confounded when he speaks to his enemies at the gate.