Psalm 127

Scripture

Psalm 127: 1-2

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.

 

Observation

 

Solomon continues to bring hope to many who may be experiencing a tough time, but this time he offers it in a practical manner. Additionally, he seems to be calling those who believe to action rather than just observance. He also speaks of God’s character throughout this short chapter.

 

Understanding

 

Without God being at the center of our lives, everything we do is meaningless.

 

As harsh as the understanding of these verses is, it’s as simple as this: without God we are nothing and a nobody. Too often we get caught up in our own ways and actions that we begin to labor in vain. It seems like something we should avoid, yet I know in my own life, I find myself slipping and placing myself at the center of my life instead of my Creator. Just like anything in life, toiling for the sake of God is a choice and a decision we should proudly wear every single day. It is us declaring to the world “If God is not at the center, or if it isn’t from God, then I don’t want it!” This statement not only humbles, but it empowers those who are willing to live it out. Paul says it this way in 1 Corinthians 13:1-2:

1 If I speak in tongues of men or angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that moves mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.

God is love and if we are exemplify Him in our daily life we must first hold Him as our unshakable identity, at the core of who we are.

 

Another interesting thing I feel I should note, however, is the fact that this verse also speaks to God’s desire to bless those He loves. I don’t know about you, but a good sleep or nap after a long day is amazing(and according to that second verse God ordained), but it is only because of God that I even have the time to nap or even be tired enough to sleep. Sure, I may have taken that to the extreme, but the point is God loves to bless those who follow after Him with all their heart. Whatever your need, He’ll happily supply it, but this only happens if God is placed at the center of your every action. Rei said it perfectly on Monday, we have already experienced God, but imagine what it would be like to experience His fullness. Imagine how much more we could knowing that the God of the universe lies within us and is who we are.

 

Life Application

 

Toil with a purpose.

 

I don’t want to build a faulty house because I thought my blueprints were better than God’s. In the same way I don’t want to miss out on God’s love and promises because He isn’t the core of my identity. May we live a life that intentionally places God above the world and ourself, may we live according to HIs will alone. Do something because it is what God wants, not because we “think” it is right. He’s already given us a purpose, not it’s time to live it!

 

-Allison Khan