Show Don't Tell: Psalm 127

Instead of saying "Human effort without God is futile," count the wasted hours. Song of Ascents, of Solomon. "Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain." Two vanities—building and guarding without God. "In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves." Early rising, late sleeping, anxious toil—all unnecessary for the beloved. Sleep as gift. Then children: "Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court." Children as arrows—weapons for the battle of life. Quiver full—protection and influence.