December 9, 2014.

“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.”
(Psalm 127:1-2)

Try, they try, and labor in vain,
Brink upon brink, the stain and pain,
Work for now, but what to gain?

Look, they look, the watch they set fourth,
They see the east, south, west and north,
But in the end, what is it’s worth?

Working hard, they labor long,
They seek what’s right, but find the wrong,
For in themselves, they count men strong.

Let them see, Lord, who You are,
Proclaim Your name near and far,
Deeper than depths, higher than stars.

“Trouble and anguish have found me out,
    but your commandments are my delight.
Your testimonies are righteous forever;
    give me understanding that I may live.”
(Psalm 119:143-144)

Walk, I walk, down life’s weary road,
Carry, I carry such a heavy load,
But it is that which I’m bestowed.

Trouble is upon me, and burdens ensue,
Trying times are right on cue
Let me in Your word renew.

Try, I try, to labor and toil,
Though life’s hands seem mine to foil,
Let me see Your throne royal!

In you, Lord, let me find rest,
You the Lord, ever to be blessed,
Your praise Lord, let me express.

“Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”
(Hebrews 4:11-13)

Try, they try, and labor in vain,
For You alone can our soul sustain,
That in Your love we might remain.

We labor now in Your sight,
We give it our all, strength and might,
Soon the morning will cast out the night!

Pick us up, Lord, and let us see,
From the cares of this world make us free,
That in Your presence we ever may be.

To You, the Lord, most holy and true,
Lift our yoke and bring us to You,
In your love, let our souls renew.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
    his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.”
(Lamentations 3:22-23)
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Suggested Daily Reading: Psalm 119, 127, Lamentations 3.

The steadfast love of the Lord be your strength.

-Walter