A Song of degrees for Solomon.

This psalm relates to David’s orders for building the temple, 1 Chron. 22, 28; or to Solomon’s actual building of it, 2 Chron. 2-6. It teacheth us constant dependence on God, in all our concerns; particularly in, (1.) Prospering our undertakings, or rearing our families; and in protecting our residence and country, ver. 1. (2.) In enriching us without excessive care or labour, ver. 2. (3.) In giving us agreeable heirs to possess our substance, ver. 3-5.

In all my undertakings, let me set the Lord always before me! and depend on his blessing, as the source of my success. In all my enjoyments, let my care be to enjoy God himself.

1 Except the Lord do build the house,
the builders lose their pain:
Except the Lord the city keep,
the watchmen watch in vain.

2 ‘Tis vain for you to rise betimes,
or late from rest to keep,
To feed on sorrows’ bread; so gives
he his beloved sleep.

3 Lo, children are God’s heritage,
the womb’s fruit his reward.
4 The sons of youth as arrows are,
for strong men’s hands prepared.

5 O happy is the man that hath
his quiver filled with those;
They unashamed in the gate
shall speak unto their foes.