Except the Lord do build the house, The builders labor all in vain

Verse 1

Except the Lord do build the house, The builders labor all in vain: Unless the Lord the city keep, In vain the guards their watch maintain.

Verse 2

To rise betimes, and sit up late, And eat thy bread with grief oppressed, Is vain; without such carking cares, The Lord gives his beloved rest.

Verse 3

Lo; children are God's heritage; The fruitful womb is his reward.

Verse 4

As arrows in a strong man's hand, So sons of youth are parents guard.

Verse 5

Happy the man, whose quiver's filled With shafts, that on him ready wait; He shall not be ashamed to speak With the adversary in the gate.