Psalm 127
1Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain.
2It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives sleep to his beloved.
3Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.
4Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons of one’s youth.
5Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
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Tradition has it that this psalm was written by David to his son Solomon who was to build the ‘First Temple.’ Others claim it was written by Solomon himself. Regardless, the main theme is that without God, our labors/endeavors are worthless. As Eugene Peterson points out, “It doesn’t say, “God has great work for you to do, so go do it,” nor does it say, “God has done everything, so go fishing.”” It does say that without God’s blessing, our work is in vain.
With 78 years behind me, I know when I have strayed and thought that I could get by without God’s help…it never, ever turned out well. Conversely, when God was at the center of my life, and I was doing what He wanted, I found great joy and success. Yet, I still think at times that God needs my help instead of me needing His, and that I can ‘do it on my own.’
Prayer: Lord, I know you’re in charge, and I am not. Help me to center my life on you and do what you want me to do. In Jesus name I pray this. Amen.
–Dave Dynneson