New International Version NIV
Common English Bible CEB
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.
1
Unless it is the LORD who builds the house, the builders' work is pointless. Unless it is the LORD who protects the city, the guard on duty is pointless.
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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It is pointless that you get up early and stay up late, eating the bread of hard labor because God gives sleep to those he loves.
3 Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.
3
No doubt about it: children are a gift from the LORD; the fruit of the womb is a divine reward.
4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.
4
The children born when one is young are like arrows in the hand of a warrior.
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.
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The person who fills a quiver full with them is truly happy! They won't be ashamed when arguing 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, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.
Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible