GOD'S WORD Translation GW
New King James Version NKJV
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
A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the Lord builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, The watchman stays awake 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
It is vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; For so He gives His beloved sleep.
3 Children are an inheritance from the LORD. They are a reward from him.
3
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward.
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 hand of a warrior, So are the children of 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
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate.