1 Unless the LORD builds up the house, 

its builders toil in vain; 

Unless he keeps the city safe, 

they vainly watch maintain. 

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2 In vain you rise before the dawn

and late hours vainly keep 

that you may toil for food to eat - 

he gives his loved ones sleep. 

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3 Sons are a precious heritage

a blessing from the LORD; 

the children that are born to us

are truly his reward. 

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4 Like arrows in a warrior's hand​

are children of one's youth. 

5 The man whose quiver's full of them 

is blessed by God in truth. 

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Such men will not be put to shame - 

that will not be their fate - 

when they contend against their foes 

who face them in the gate. 

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lyrics from 'Sing Psalms'. Copyright Free Church of Scotland. 

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