Read Psalm 128

In this Psalm we see what we often call the good life.

A. The promise of the good life, v1-4.

1.    The recipients of the good life, v1,4.

Note that it is God who defines good life, though His description is not that different from what we might offer.

This promise is to "saints" (v1) and yet to each "saint" (v4).  A "saint" is someone who fears the Lord and who walks in His ways.  A man's heart will be seen in his walk.  Deep reverence for God will be evidenced by regular and constant conformity to His will.

What does the Bible mean by the fear of the Lord?  The Hebrew term used here can refer to being afraid of someone or something.  But it also is used of being in awe, having reverence, honor and respect for someone.  It is a fear joined with love and hope, and is therefore not a slavish dread, but rather, a family reverence seen in the relationship of a child to his father.  The fear of God is not only an Old Testament concept (Matt. 10:28; 2 Cor. 5:11; 7:1; Phil. 2:12; Eph. 5:21; Heb. 12:28,29).

Practically, the one who fears God has an underlying and ongoing realization of God's presence and involvement in every event of life.  He acknowledges God at all times (Prov. 3:5-6).

2.    The description of the good life, v2-3.

At work the one who walks in God's ways has an honest livelihood and a comfortable living.  The Bible makes it clear that the man is not necessarily free of pain, even the pain of losing his job.  But he is not jobless because of laziness, insubordination, dishonesty or unwillingness to work at menial tasks.  Nor is his comfortable living the result of having lots of money.  Part of his godly life is his contentment and generosity with God's provision (Matt. 6:19-34; Phil. 4).

At home this man is blessed with an enjoyable marriage and family.  Again, it's not that his home is perfect and without trouble.  But it is that the one who walks in God's ways is finding satisfaction in those God has placed closest to him.

B. The prayer for the good life, v5-6.

The prayer is for the very thing God has promised.  If we join Ps. 127 and 128, this brings us back to the beginning: unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.  Those who fear God and walk in His ways are faithful to seek their happiness (blessedness) from God by prayer.