Psalms 127; Psalms 128; Psalms 129

Psalms 127

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 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 a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.

4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children 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 opponents in court.

Psalms 128

1 Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in obedience to him.

2 You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.

3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table.

4 Yes, this will be the blessing for the man who fears the LORD.

5 May the LORD bless you from Zion; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life.

6 May you live to see your children’s children— peace be on Israel.

Psalms 129

1 “They have greatly oppressed me from my youth,” let Israel say;

2 “they have greatly oppressed me from my youth, but they have not gained the victory over me.

3 Plowmen have plowed my back and made their furrows long.

4 But the LORD is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.”

5 May all who hate Zion be turned back in shame.

6 May they be like grass on the roof, which withers before it can grow;

7 a reaper cannot fill his hands with it, nor one who gathers fill his arms.

8 May those who pass by not say to them, “The blessing of the LORD be on you; we bless you in the name of the LORD.”