Psalms 126; Psalms 127; Psalms 128

1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.

2 Our mouths were filled with laughter then, and our tongues with shouts of joy. Then they said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them."

3 The Lord had done great things for us; we were joyful.

4 Restore our fortunes, Lord, like watercourses in the Negev.

5 Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.

6 Though one goes along weeping, carrying the bag of seed, he will surely come back with shouts of joy, carrying his sheaves.

1 Unless the Lord builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain; unless the Lord watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain.

2 In vain you get up early and stay up late, eating food earned by hard work; certainly He gives sleep to the one He loves.

3 Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, children, a reward.

4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one's youth.

5 Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them. Such men will never be put to shame when they speak with [their] enemies at the city gate.

1 How happy is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways!

2 You will surely eat what your hands have worked for. You will be happy, and it will go well for you.

3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house, your sons, like young olive trees around your table.

4 In this very way the man who fears the Lord will be blessed.

5 May the Lord bless you from Zion, so that you will see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life,

6 and will see your children's children! Peace be with Israel.