Psalm 127:1-5 (New International Version)

Psalm 127

A song of ascents. Of Solomon.

 ¹ Unless the LORD builds the house,
       its builders labor in vain.
       Unless the LORD watches over the city,
       the watchmen stand guard in vain.

 ² In vain you rise early
       and stay up late,
       toiling for food to eat—
       for he grants sleep to ^[a] those he loves.

 ³ Sons are a heritage from the LORD,
       children a reward from him.

 ⁴ Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
       are sons born in one's youth.

 ⁵ Blessed is the man
       whose quiver is full of them.
       They will not be put to shame
       when they contend with their enemies in the gate.