| New International Version (NIV) | New International Version (NIV) |
| 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. | 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 those he loves. | 2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat-- for he grants sleep to those he loves. |
| 3 Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. | 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. | 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. | 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. |
| Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |