20231205

blessings

Psalm 127:1-5 (JDV)

Psalm 127:1 [A song of festival caravans. Of Solomon.] Unless Yahveh builds a house, its builders labor over it for nothing; unless Yahveh watches over a city, the watchman stays alert for nothing.
Psalm 127:2 You get up early and stay up late for nothing, working hard to have enough food — yes, he gives sleep to the one he loves.
Psalm 127:3 Sons are indeed a heritage from Yahveh, offspring, a reward.
Psalm 127:4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one’s youth.
Psalm 127:5 fortunate is the man who has filled his quiver with them. They will never be humiliated when they speak with their enemies at the city gate.

blessings

The psalmist pictures hard workers, and careful defenders, then tells them both that unless the LORD is with them, their efforts are wasted. A believer is going to work, but he is also going to show his faith in God by resting. Sleep is a gift to a righteous man: an opportunity to show trust. Those blessed with children have been given another great gift — another opportunity to give the LORD praise, to let him be the blesser.

LORD, thank you for the blessings of rest, and children.