I have been spending time in the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120–134) this year, and one particular psalm has captured my attention recently. As I struggle to work hard, I am reminded that my labor may be in vain if does not align with God’s will. Working harder is not always the best answer.

At the Center of the Journey

The Psalms of Ascent were sung by pilgrims traveling to the Temple—the dwelling place of the Lord—three times a year. These songs prepared their hearts for worship, reminding them of God’s faithfulness and their dependence on Him.

Psalm 127, the midpoint of this collection, stands out in its call to surrender. It’s the only psalm attributed to Solomon, and at its center is the reminder of relationship with God: “Beloved.” Structurally, the word sits at the very heart of the psalm, 28 words before and 28 words after, to emphasize that God’s love for us is at the center of all we do and all we are.

The psalm begins with this striking statement:

“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 rest.”

The word “vain” is repeated three times, driving home the futility of striving without God. But in contrast, there is a promise of rest for the beloved. This rest isn’t merely physical; it’s a soul-deep assurance that God is at work in ways we cannot always see.

Living the Prayer

This year, I’ve adopted a simple prayer rooted in this psalm: “Unless the Lord…” It’s my reminder to surrender areas of my life where I’ve been striving, managing, or muscling through on my own strength.

In A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, Eugene Peterson takes us through each of the Psalms of Ascent. In that book he writes:

“The work of prayer is not manipulation but relationship. It is not about getting God to do what we want but about becoming the kind of person God wants.”

“Unless the Lord” prayers help me to recalibrate to this truth. It calls me to release my need for control and trust the God who gives rest to His beloved. May this prayer guide you in every area of your life:
“Unless the Lord…” 

Trust that God, the Master Builder, is faithful to lead, sustain, and bring fruit to the work He’s called you to do. And as you do, may you experience the peace and rest that only He can give.