GOD'S WORD Translation GW
New International Version NIV
1 If the LORD does not build the house, it is useless for the builders to work on it. If the LORD does not protect a city, it is useless for the guard to stay alert.
1
Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.
2 It is useless to work hard for the food you eat by getting up early and going to bed late. The LORD gives [food] to those he loves while they sleep.
2
In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.
3 Children are an inheritance from the LORD. They are a reward from him.
3
Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.
4 The children born to a man when he is young are like arrows in the hand of a warrior.
4
Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.
5 Blessed is the man who has filled his quiver with them. He will not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the city gate.
5
Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.
GOD'S WORD® is a copyrighted work of God's Word to the Nations. Copyright © 1995 by God's Word to the Nations. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.