< 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 song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. A psalm of Solomon. If the Lord doesn't build the house, the work of the builders is futile. If the Lord doesn't guard the city, the work of the guards is pointless.
2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for bread to eat— for He gives sleep to His beloved.
It's useless to get up early in the morning and go to work, and stay late into the evening, worrying about earning enough to eat, when the Lord gives rest to those he loves.
3 Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward.
Children certainly are a gift from the Lord, for a family is a blessing.
4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of a young man.
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.
Happy is the father who fills his quiver with them! Such fathers will not be embarrassed when they confront their enemies at the city gate.

< Psalms 127 >