Psalms 127

1 [A Song of Ascents. By Solomon.] Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman guards it 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 It is vain for you to rise up early, to stay up late, eating the bread of toil; for he gives sleep to his loved ones.

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 Look, children are a heritage of the LORD. The fruit of the womb is a reward.

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

4 As arrows in the hand of a mighty 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 who has his quiver full of them. They won't be disappointed when they speak 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.