1 If GOD to build the House deny,
The Builders work in vain;
And Towns, without his wakeful Eye
An useless Watch maintain.

2 Before the Morning Beams arise,
Your painful Work renew,
And till the Stars ascend the Skies,
Your tiresome Toil pursue.

3 Short be your Sleep, and coarse your Fare;
In vain, till GOD has blest;
But if his Smiles attend your Care,
You shall have Food and Rest.

4 Nor Children, Relatives, nor Friends,
Shall real Blessings prove,
Nor all the earthly Joys he sends,
If sent without his Love.