"He Giveth His Beloved Sleep"
Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.
Psalm 127 underscores the futility of human endeavors without divine involvement. The opening lines highlight that human efforts, no matter how diligent, are ultimately meaningless without God's participation. Whether building a home or safeguarding a city, divine support is essential for true success and security. The psalmist then contrasts the toil of anxious labor with the gift of rest bestowed by God, portraying sleep as a divine solace offered to His beloved, emphasizing the comfort and reprieve found in faith. Further on, the text celebrates children as blessings from God, equating them to arrows in a warrior's hands—symbols of strength and honor. A full quiver signifies not just familial joy but protection and esteem, suggesting that a life aligned with God's blessings is both fulfilling and secure.
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