Work and Rest Together

My dear son,

Invite me into the work of building and keeping watch. As the Father who values your effort, I also want you to enjoy knowing that I am with you. You do not have to complete everything by your own strength.

If anxiety makes it hard to stop after working faithfully, tell me. Staying awake late cannot close every gap in life. You may trust me and give your body the sleep it needs.

Bring today's work to a calm stopping place and rest. I treasure the hours when my beloved child sleeps. Even while you are still, depend on your Father's care and let the night be peaceful.

With all my love,
Your Father

Psalms 127:1–2

WEB

1Unless the LORD builds the house, they who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman guards it in vain.
2It is vain for you to rise up early, to stay up late, eating the bread of toil, for he gives sleep to his loved ones.

A short reflection

The psalm teaches that building and guarding are futile without God's help, warns against anxious overwork, and says God gives sleep to those he loves.

World English Bible (WEB) · Public DomainRead the chapter