Study Guide – Psalm 127

1 Unless the Lord builds the house,
    the builders labor in vain.
Unless the Lord watches over the city,
    the guards stand watch in vain.
2 In vain you rise early
    and stay up late,
toiling for food to eat—
    for he grants sleep to those he loves.

Considering verses 1-2, how could we be sure that our activity will be truly effective?

What are your plans over the 24 hours? Are these the plans the Lord would chose for you?

3 Children are a heritage from the Lord,
    offspring a reward from him.
4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
    are children born in one’s youth.
5 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. NIV

How do verses 3-5 relate to verses 1-2?

How are children born in one's youth like arrows in the hands of a warrior? 

This psalm is attributed to Solomon and is among many "Songs of Ascent" preparing God's people to gather in worship in Jerusalem at the Temple. How does the mention of "court" in verse 5 fit into this context?

::::: Equipping Challenge :::::

On both a long-term and short-term scale in your life, what difference would it make in your plans if you saw them as opportunities to participate in what the Lord is aleady doing in you and already planning for you? With this in mind, take some time over the next 24 hours to talk with God about your plans.