The Psalm begins by emphasizing that efforts are in vain without God's involvement, stressing the futility of human endeavors without divine support: "Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it."
This theme covers the reliance on God for security, indicating that without God's guardianship, even vigilant watchmen are ineffective: "Except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain."
Children are portrayed as a blessing from God, reflecting a sense of reward and contentment with family as gifts from the divine: "Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
The psalm highlights the peace that comes from trusting in God's provision, suggesting that rest is more fruitful than anxious labor: "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."