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New International Version (NIV) |
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1 If God doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks. If God doesn't guard the city, the night watchman might as well nap.
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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.
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2 It's useless to rise early and go to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don't you know he enjoys giving rest to those he loves?
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2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat-- for he grants sleep to those he loves.
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3 Don't you see that children are God's best gift? the fruit of the womb his generous legacy?
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3 Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him.
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4 Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth.
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4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth.
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5 Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep.
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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.
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| Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved. (The Message 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) |
