1 E xcept the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.

2 I t 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.

3 L o, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

4 A s arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.

5 H appy 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.