1.
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.
1, 2. suggest the view of the
theme given.
2.
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.
2. so he giveth his beloved
sleep—that is, His providential care gives sleep which no
efforts of ours can otherwise procure, and this is a reason for trust
as to other things (compare ).
3.
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
3-5. Posterity is often
represented as a blessing from God (Genesis 30:2;
Genesis 30:18; 1 Samuel 1:19;
1 Samuel 1:20). Children are
represented as the defenders (arrows) of their parents in war, and in
litigation.
4.
As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
5.
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.
5. adversaries in the gate—or
place of public business (compare Job 5:4;
Psalms 69:12).