Psalms 127

1 A song of degrees, or Psalme of Salomon. Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vaine that build it: except the Lord keepe the citie, the keeper watcheth in vaine.

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 It is in vaine for you to rise earely, and to lie downe late, and eate the bread of sorow: but he wil surely giue rest to his beloued.

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 Beholde, children are the inheritance of the Lord, and the fruite of the wombe his rewarde.

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

4 As are the arrowes in the hand of ye strong man: so are the children of youth.

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

5 Blessed is the man, that hath his quiuer full of them: for they shall not be ashamed, when they speake with their enemies in 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.