Psalms 127

1 A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman wakes in vain.

2 In vain you rise early, and finish so late, and so eat sorrow’s bread; for he cares for his loved ones in their sleep.

3 Children are a gift of the Lord, the fruit of the womb, a reward.

4 Like arrows wielded by warriors, are the children of youth.

5 Happy the man who has filled his quiver full of them. He will not be ashamed when he speaks with enemies in the gate.