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Psalms 127:2

It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.

Psalms 127:2 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from Psalm 127:2 emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and finding rest in Him. It cautions against striving endlessly and anxiously for success and provision, as this mindset ultimately leads to a life filled with sorrow. The verse encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to trust in His provision, rather than relying solely on their own efforts. By surrendering our worries and fears to God, we can experience true rest and peace that comes from knowing that He is in control. The phrase "he giveth his beloved sleep" highlights God's love and care for His children, assuring them that they can find rest in Him rather than being consumed by anxiety and toil. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder to trust in God's faithfulness and to seek rest in Him, rather than in our own efforts.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse, "It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep," we understand that it conveys the message that the pursuit of material wealth and success through one's own efforts is ultimately empty and unfulfilling. The verse emphasizes the futility of toiling incessantly without acknowledging God's provision and rest. The word "vain" implies a sense of emptiness and meaninglessness in working solely for worldly gain. Additionally, the phrase "bread of sorrows" indicates that human effort apart from God leads to a life filled with toil and anxiety.

Delving deeper into a word study of the verse, the word "sleep" in the context of this passage symbolizes God's gift of rest and trust in His provision. It speaks to the importance of relying on God's sovereignty and not solely depending on our own endeavors. By giving His beloved sleep, God demonstrates His care and protection over His people, allowing them to find peace and contentment in Him. Therefore, this verse serves as a reminder for believers to prioritize seeking God's kingdom first and trusting in His ability to provide, rather than exhausting themselves in pursuit of worldly success.

Psalms 127:2 in other translations

American Standard Version

It is vain for you to rise up early, To take rest late, To eat the bread of toil; [For] so he giveth unto his beloved sleep.

World English Bible

It 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.

Douay-Rheims

For thou shalt eat the labours of thy hands: blessed art thou, and it shall be well with thee.

Geneva Bible (1599)

It is in vaine for you to rise earely, and to lie downe late, and eate the bread of sorow: but he wil surely giue rest to his beloued.