Bible Verse of the Week

Psalm 127:1 “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.”

Often blinded by the privileged life we fail to see our need. We work, we earn, we achieve, we succeed, and our pride grows. We say that anything is impossible for those who work hard enough, but that isn’t what scripture teaches. Scripture says, “I can do all things THROUGH CHRIST who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Even the mightiest of worldly strength utilized by the brightest mind is nothing without Christ. The reality is we are weak, feeble creatures, destined for self-destruction.

Without the Lord the work will become tedious and unproductive when once it was easy and efficient. Problems will fail to find a quick solution. Restful nights will turn to fits of anxious restlessness. That which used to bring joy will become dull. Man’s altars will fail the worshiper and false sanctuaries will crumble. The watchman will become blind and the cities’ inhabitants will have no warning when the day of reckoning comes.

This is the plight of man without God ever since the fall.

If we wish to end our futility, we must change how we labor. We must not labor in vain in our own efforts but labor in Christ’ who provides our true strength. Analyze your life and if you find areas where you feel your labor is useless, submit this to the Lord and watch Him work. He will certainly require you to co-labor with him, but you will enjoy the fruit of His labor – true progress without anxiety and a restful night sleep.