Psalm 127

Psalm 127 (The Message)

A Pilgrim Song of Solomon

 ^1-2 If God doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks. 
   If God doesn't guard the city, 
      the night watchman might as well nap. 
   It's useless to rise early and go to bed late, 
      and work your worried fingers to the bone. 
   Don't you know he enjoys 
      giving rest to those he loves? 

 ^3-5 Don't you see that children are God's best gift? 
      the fruit of the womb his generous legacy? 
   Like a warrior's fistful of arrows 
      are the children of a vigorous youth. 
   Oh, how blessed are you parents, 
      with your quivers full of children! 
   Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; 
      you'll sweep them right off your doorstep.


I neglected my time with you this afternoon, God. I was busy, I made excuses. But I could not sleep. My mind is fretful and full of busy thoughts and worries. I pray that you will give me rest that I can wake and be a blessing to my husband and children, truly the greatest blessings you have bestowed upon me. 
I do not always feel blessed by my children, there are times when they seem an imposition and an endless source of frustration. But they are truly blessings. I understand better your love for me in the love I have for them. 
Thank you, God, for all of your blessings to me. Thank you for my children, for my husband who has worked so hard for us. Thank you for our home, and for all that we have. Help us to have faith in you and your provision. Help us to follow more closely your path for us. Give us peace that we may find true rest in you. 
I feel so far from you tonight. So tired. I love you, even though I am not as faithful as I ought to be. I love you, and I desire to have that close relationship with you. Help me to be faithful. Build my house and guard my city so that I know I am secure and cared for. 
All praise to you, the God who watches over us, cares for us, provides for us. 
Amen.