Did you know that this is a promise from God? Often people come to my office asking for help because they can’t sleep. Some call it insomnia; others simply describe their inability to fall asleep, while others have an inability to stay asleep. The TV ads are filled with multiple sleep aids – many of which these people have already tried.
Before I go on, let me say that sleeplessness can be a serious medical issue and I don’t want to make light of it. Seeking medical help is wise when sleeplessness is persistent and affecting your health. However, we also need to examine our life patterns – perhaps we are getting too much “blue screen” time at night or not enough physical activity in the day. All that being said, we do not want to discount God’s Word, so let’s dive in.
Psalm 4:8 says it this way: Now, because of you, Lord, I will lie down in peace and sleep comes at once, for no matter what happens, I will live unafraid. TPT
I think this scripture gives us a very strong directive. This person’s sweet sleep is resulting from his focus on the Lord and His power, rather than the power of the circumstance. In other words, his focus is on his God rather than his Goliath.
How often do we lie down and begin to replay the problems of the day rather than the promises of our God? When 2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ, it applies to our evenings as well as our days. We have control over what we allow our brain to think and the Lord is clear that He does not want us thinking negatively.
Philippians 4:8 tells us: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. This will definitely help our sleep patterns!
Yes, there may be many situations going on in our life that need attention, but lack of sleep robs us of our ability to think clearly which is necessary for effective problem solving. So, trying to do it late at night is very counterproductive.
My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight,
preserve sound judgment and discretion;
22 they will be life for you,
an ornament to grace your neck.
23 Then you will go on your way in safety,
and your foot will not stumble.
24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Proverbs 3:21-24
So, my wonderful friends trust that God says what he means and He means what He says. By seeking His wisdom and choosing to focus in faith, fear will disappear. Our God is bigger than any circumstance. Sweet sleep can be within your grasp!!
