In a town hall near London four pillars still stand that never touch the ceiling, a brilliant architect built them solely to prove to the officials that they were completely unnecessary. This picture of wasted effort opens a reflection on Psalms 127 and 128: unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain. This sermon about family shows that children are God’s gift and heritage, and that a happy home begins with deciding who the architect of our life will be. Listen before you lay the next brick.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Psalm 127 describes builders, watchmen and hard work that are all in vain unless the Lord builds and guards. What does it mean that God grants sleep to those He loves, and why is this not praise for laziness?
- Psalms 127 and 128 were sung by pilgrims travelling to Jerusalem, even when their land was occupied and their children's future uncertain. What might these songs about home and blessing have meant to them?
- The sermon mentioned four pillars that never touch the ceiling as a picture of wasted effort. In which areas of life, such as work, relationships or career, might you be building something that will not stand the test of time?
- Psalm 127 calls children a gift and a heritage from the Lord, like arrows in the hand of a warrior. How does this shape the way you see children and passing faith on to the next generation?
- In Psalm 128 the fear of the Lord means living in obedience and walking in His ways, and those who fear God this way are not afraid of many other things. How do you understand this paradox in your own life?
- According to the sermon, when God is the architect of our home, we work, spend money, talk and reconcile differently. In which of these areas do you want to build according to His plan this week, and how will you do it?
