Psalm 127:1-2, "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."

Our passage begins with a declaration of understanding concerning God's place in all human undertakings. It matters not the level of our skill, the level of our intellect, the level of our riches, or the power of our vocation, we must not forget the words, "except the LORD." God must always be brought into the equation of life. No one desires that his or her labor is in vain. No one desires his efforts to keep and safeguard the things around him be fruitless. But ultimately, all accomplishment and safety are dependent upon the LORD.

The idea of sleeplessness is brought to light in the latter half of verse 1, "except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain." Many people place their trust in personal effort, they rise early, they work long and tiring hours, they go to bed late, their days are filled by the consumption of sorrows. The idea conveyed in the words "bread of sorrows" speaks of our consumption of anxiety, worry, and turmoil. The Bible is not speaking against the discipline of early rising or working hard, it is simply reminding us that when it is all said and done, if the LORD is not the One building or keeping, our efforts are futile. The "bread of sorrows" should be exchanged for the "sweet sleep of trust" in our lives.

May we learn to depend upon the Lord for the ultimate outcome of everything in life. Any and all our endeavors must rest squarely upon His shoulders. Otherwise we are living a life filled with the drudgery of self-effort, and the sorrow that accompanies this type of living.

Have a great day watching Him build and keep all your undertakings. One of the results of trust is a good night's sleep. When you go to bed at night,

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

Ponder & Meditate

1. What have you done to make sure that God is the focus of your life?

2. What are you doing to make sure that God is the One building your house?

3. Is there anything you have allowed in your life to cause you to eat the bread of sorrows?

4. How should you deal with sorrow?