Bible Commentaries
Psalms 128

Verses 1-6

This song naturally follows the one in which Jehovah’s relation to the home, as building and establishing it, is recognised. It is chiefly interesting as it reveals the singer’s conception of the relation between the prosperity of the family and that of the city.

As to the home, the condition of its prosperity is declared to be fear of the Lord, walking in His ways. Then the resulting blessings are promised. This blessedness of home life issues in the good of Jerusalem. The line of development is most important; the God-fearing man, the God-fearing family, the God-fearing city.

This song of the worshippers ascending toward the city and temple is one the application of which is of perpetual importance. The strength of any city lies in its strong family life. The true strength of the family issues from its ordering in the fear of the Lord. It is of real significance that these songs of home and of true civic consciousness are found among those which are sung on the way that leads to worship. It is ever good to carry into the place of our communion with God the interests of home and city. It is only by doing so that we can influence these for their lasting good.