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.