Daily Devotional – ‘In His Footstep’
By Kingdom Support Initiatives (KSi)
December 1st 2022

Except the Lord Build

Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. Psalm 127:1

Bible Reading: Psalm 127:1-2

King Solomon who wrote this passage carefully selected his words. His choice of words was based on his experience as a king who built a palace and God’s temple. His tenure enjoyed God’s peace and God’s protection. These two responsibilities are constantly needed in our daily lives. King Solomon uses the analogy of building a house and watching over a city to speak to us. Here are some implications drawn from the passage:

Firstly, two subjects were mentioned in the verse “the Lord” and “the builder/watchman”. Both have their responsibilities and they are working together to ensure the building and protection. In essence, God is working and human beings should also play their part as well. This means we cannot abandon our responsibility to God. There is no room for laziness. The Bible encourages us to visit the ants and learn lessons about hard work, diligence, labour, time and resource management among others (Proverb 6:6-11).

Despite the hard work, the psalmist situated the Source of his success in God because “except the Lord builds the house, the labourers build but in vain”. This truth implies that it is God that makes the labourer’s effort successful and rewarding. God is the source. This should humble us because our success is not only a product of our hand work. It is God that blesses. When we live with this understanding, we are humbled and we give God all the glory. As we acknowledge God, we are bringing men to Him because “if God is lifted up, He will draw men to Himself”. We are products of God’s mercy and grace because “a man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven” (John 3:27).

Self-Reflection: For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Phil. 2:13

Daily Confession: Lord Jesus I thank You for without You, I am nothing and You are my Source. I accept Your Lordship over my life, rid me of pride and I submit all unto You. Amen!

Intercessory prayer: Pray for pastors, evangelists and missionaries for God’s presence.

Hymn: Take my life and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.

Take my moments and my days,

Let them flow in endless praise.