Peaceful sleep – 12 May 2020

Most of us have rituals for ending each day. We watch the evening news or scroll through Facebook. We read a book. We take the dog out, brush our teeth and lock the doors. Once we’ve done all that, we get into bed only to toss and turn, worrying about the day past or the day ahead.

David, who wrote those words, knew all about the dangers facing us each day. He experienced much distress in his own life, and he knew there was no safety in life or in death without the Lord.

Perhaps you are experiencing some of the distress of Psalm 4. Perhaps you find yourself lying awake at night because of things that are happening in your life. Perhaps you wonder about your health, your family, your job, your future. Perhaps you dread what might come in the months ahead.

The earlier verses of this Psalm give us some perspective: “How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him.” (Psalm 4:2-3).

This Psalm even gives us some practical advice in verse 4: “Search your hearts and be silent”.

Maybe it’s time for another ritual. Spend time reading your Bible this evening, ask God to help you to remember to take all of your difficulties to Him. Then, go to sleep in peace, because they are now in the hands of God. This is the God we serve! 

Prayer: Father in heaven, be close to all who are experiencing the difficult challenges of life. Grant them the safety and security you offer through our Lord Jesus. Amen