Psalm 127: Nisi Dominus

Unless the LORD builds the house, *

their labor is in vain who build it.

Unless the LORD watches over the city, *

in vain the watchman keeps his vigil.

It is in vain that you rise so early and go to bed so late; *

vain, too, to eat the bread of toil,

for he gives to his beloved sleep.

Children are a heritage from the LORD, *

and the fruit of the womb is a gift.

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior *

are the children of one's youth.

Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them! *

he shall not be put to shame

when he contends with his enemies in the gate.