“We have been assured, sir, in the Sacred Writings, that ‘except the Lord build the House, they labor in vain that build it.’ I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without His concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel..” -Benjamin Franklin
God’s Word is clear:
“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1).
First, consider what this passage does not say.
It doesn’t say, “unless the Lord builds the house, he won’t let you start building it.”
The real meaning is simple yet frightening: you can get to work (start building) in a way that is complete and total vanity.
In other words, it is entirely possible for you to get involved in the political arena. It is possible for you to work very hard for change. It is possible for you to fight in the public square. It is possible for you to take many steps that feel like great progress.
And yet, the Psalmist tells us that if God does not bless your efforts, everything you did was in vanity.
This Scripture not only sobers us, but it emphasizes our desperate need for prayer.
Do you want to see demonic agendas destroyed? Pray first.
Do you want to see God-fearing officials take office? Pray first.
Do you want to pass down a better America to your kids? Pray first.
If we would make any real, true, and lasting progress, the Lord Himself must bless our steps. He must go before us and guide us.
So yes, we must get to work with our hands–but not before we spend time on our knees.
Will you pray today for our nation?
