Psalms 127

1 A Song of Ascents; of Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it; except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but 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 that ye rise early, and sit up late, ye that eat the bread of toil; so He giveth unto His beloved in sleep.

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 Lo, 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 one's youth.

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

5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them; they shall not be put to shame, 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.