Psalm 127

EXcept the Lord the house do build,
vain is the workmans pain,
Unless the Lord the City keep,
the watchman wakes in vain.
To rise up early is but vain,
in vain late watchings are,
Vain is it pensively to eat
the bread of grief and care.

For the beloved of the Lord
are so far by him blest,
That unto them he largely gives
sweet sleep and quiet rest.
Lo children are an heritage
which doth from God descend,
And the wombs fruit is his reward,
his blessing doth it send.

Children of youth a strong defence
are to their parents dear.
As arrows to a strong man be
when there is cause of fear.
And blessed is the man that hath
his quiver full of those;
They unashamed in the gate
shall speak unto their foes.