This is your weekly dose of Biblical Encouragement, sweet momma! 
Psalm 127: A Biblical Perspective on Work, Family, and God’s Blessing
Psalm 127 is a short but powerful passage that speaks to the role of God in both our labor and our family life. This psalm, attributed to Solomon, reminds us that all human efforts—whether in building a home, working for a living, or raising children—are in vain unless they are rooted in God’s blessing and providence.
Psalm 127 (KJV)
“Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. It 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. Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy 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.”
God’s Role in Our Work
Matthew Henry, in his commentary, emphasizes that human labor is useless without God’s blessing. He writes:
“Every house must be built in the name of God, and every city kept under his care, or safety is in vain. Those who depend on their own wisdom and strength instead of God’s providence will find all their efforts fruitless.”
This passage reminds us that while we are called to work diligently, our success ultimately depends on God. Whether we are constructing a physical house, establishing a business, or building a life, we must seek His guidance and rely on Him.
The psalm also warns against overworking and anxious toil. In verse 2, the phrase “It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows” speaks to the futility of working ourselves to exhaustion. Matthew Henry explains that when we trust in God, we can rest peacefully, knowing He provides for us.
“God’s providence is to be acknowledged, not only in building houses but in the preservation of states and kingdoms. He does not design that man should toil in continual anxiety.”
This does not mean we should be lazy, but rather that we should work with faith, trusting that God will bless our efforts in His time and way.
Children: A Blessing from the Lord
The second half of Psalm 127 shifts to the topic of family, particularly children. Verse 3 tells us, “Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.”
In today’s culture, children are sometimes seen as a burden, but Scripture declares them to be a blessing. Matthew Henry highlights this truth:
“Children are a heritage and gift from the Lord; and when they are dutiful, they are arrows in the hand of a mighty man, who can do great things with them.”
The image of children as arrows (verse 4) suggests preparation and direction. Just as an archer must carefully shape and aim his arrows, parents are responsible for raising and guiding their children in godliness. When children grow up with a strong foundation in the Lord, they become a source of strength and influence in the world.
Conclusion: Trusting in God’s Providence
Psalm 127 teaches us that our work, security, and family life must be entrusted to God. It challenges us to examine our priorities—are we relying on our own strength, or are we seeking God’s guidance in all things?
Matthew Henry’s insights remind us that true success and peace come from depending on the Lord, not on our own efforts alone. When we acknowledge Him in all our ways, He establishes our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
As we labor in our careers, build our homes, and raise our families, may we always remember: “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.”