1 IN vain we build, unless the Lord
The fabric still sustain;
Unless the Lord the city keep,
The watchman wakes in vain.
In vain we rise before the day,
And late to rest repair,
Allow no respite to our toil,
And eat the bread of care.
2 But, if we trust our Father's love
And in his ways delight,
He gives us needful food by day
And quiet sleep by night.
Then children, relatives, and friends,
Our real blessings prove;
And all the earthly joys he grants
Are crowned with heavenly love.