Psalms 127

1 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.

A Song of the going up. Of Solomon. If the Lord is not helping the builders, then the building of a house is to no purpose: if the Lord does not keep the town, the watchman keeps his watch for nothing.

2 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.

It is of no use for you to get up early, and to go late to your rest, with the bread of sorrow for your food; for the Lord gives to his loved ones in sleep.

3 Children certainly are a gift from the Lord, for a family is a blessing.

See, sons are a heritage from the Lord; the fruit of the body is his reward.

4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of a young man.

Like arrows in the hand of a man of war, are the children of the young.

5 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.

Happy is the man who has a good store of them; he will not be put to shame, but his cause will be supported by them against his haters.