Psalm 127 | English Standard Version New International Reader’s Version

Psalm 127 | English Standard Version

Unless the Lord Builds the House

1 A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. 2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. 3 Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children* of one’s youth. 5 Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.*

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New International Reader’s Version

A song for those who go up to Jerusalem to worship the Lord. A psalm of Solomon.

1 If the LORD doesn’t build a house, the work of the builders is useless. If the LORD doesn’t watch over a city, it’s useless for those on guard duty to stand watch over it. 2 It’s useless for you to work from early morning until late at night just to get food to eat. God provides for those he loves even while they sleep. 3 Children are a gift from the LORD. They are a reward from him. 4 Children who are born to people when they are young are like arrows in the hands of a soldier. 5 Blessed are those who have many children. They won’t be put to shame when they go up against their enemies in court.