Psalms 126; Psalms 127; Psalms 128

1 Our enemies took us away from Zion. But when the LORD brought us home, it seemed like a dream to us.

2 Our mouths were filled with laughter. Our tongues sang with joy. Then the people of other nations said, "The LORD has done great things for them."

3 The LORD has done great things for us. And we are filled with joy.

4 Lord, bless us with great success again, as rain makes streams flow in the Negev Desert.

5 Those who cry as they plant their crops will sing with joy when they gather them in.

6 Those who go out sobbing as they carry seeds to plant will come back singing with joy. They will bring the new crop back with them.

1 If the LORD doesn't build a house, the work of its builders is useless. If the LORD doesn't watch over a city, it's useless for those on guard duty to stand watch over it.

2 It's useless for you to work from early morning until late at night just to get food to eat. God provides for those he loves even while they sleep.

3 Children are a gift from the Lord. They are a reward from him.

4 Children who are born to people when they are young are like arrows in the hands of a soldier.

5 Blessed are those who have many children. They won't be put to shame when they go up against their enemies in court.

1 Blessed are all those who have respect for the Lord. They live as he wants them to live.

2 Your work will give you what you need. Blessings and good things will come to you.

3 As a vine bears a lot of fruit, so your wife will have many children by you. They will sit around your table like young olive trees.

4 Only a man who has respect for the LORD will be blessed like that.

5 May the LORD bless you from Zion. May you enjoy the good things that come to Jerusalem all the days of your life.

6 May you live to see your grandchildren. May Israel enjoy peace.