Psalm 127 (Tate & Brady)

1 We build with fruitless cost, unless

the Lord the pile sustain

Unless the Lord the city keep

the watchman wakes in vain.

2 In vain we rise before the day,

and late to rest repair,

Allow no respite to our toil,

and eat the bread of care.

3 Supplies of life, with ease to them,

he on his saints bestows;

He crowns their labor with success,

their nights with sound repose.

4 Children, those comforts of our life,

are presents from the Lord;

He gives a num'rous race of heirs,

as piety's reward.

5 As arrows in a giant's hand,

when marching forth to war,

E'en so the sons of sprightly youth

their parents' safeguard are.

6 Happy the man whose quiver's filled

with these prevailing arms;

He needs not fear to meet his foe

at law, or war's alarms.