Peaceful Sleep

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.       –  Psalm 4:8 

How is your circadian rhythm? Asked another way, do you suffer from insomnia? Everyone has a natural 24-hour cycle of physical, mental, and behavioral patterns that are controlled by your brain—your circadian rhythm. It is often set early in adulthood. Daylight and darkness influence it, but it can also be affected, and sometimes disrupted, by stress, physical activity, when and how much you eat, and environmental factors such as temperature.  

There are all sorts of helpful tips for dealing with sleeplessness. David was no stranger to stress in his life, which could keep him awake at night. Today’s verse, though, indicates he is able to lay that aside. Theologian Matthew Henry says, “He fears no disturbance from his enemies, sleeps quietly, and is very secure, because God himself has undertaken to keep him safe.” Henry adds, “He commits all his affairs to God, and contentedly leaves the issue of them with him” concluding that David, “having by faith and prayer cast his care upon God, sleeps and rests night and day, and is very easy, leaving it to his God to perform all things for him.” 

When you conclude your day, spend time with the Lord in prayer. Acknowledge any issue that may have disrupted your relationship with Him, confess it, and receive forgiveness. Then cast every care you have carried through the day on Him—and do it as though releasing a balloon, not as if you’re holding a kite string so you can reel those cares back in! Give thanks for the provision God has given you and the many ways He has blessed you with His favor. After interceding for those you love or have concerns over, give Him thanks for hearing you. Then, as it says in Proverbs 3:24, “If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.”