I Just Need Some Sleep

I hate to admit this but—I struggle with the night. It’s not everyday I battle with this, but when I do, it’s real. I love the day, especially the quiet of early morning. But when night comes, I lay in bed and my mind gives way to thoughts that make me afraid or anxious. I usually read to relax and then fall asleep. But if I am anxious, it may take a couple hours to sleep. It’s not fun.

Recently I had a bout with insomnia and just thinking about trying to sleep made me anxious. I wondered how long it would take for my mind and body to rest. My anxiety was so strong when I was in bed that my throat would tighten up and I’d force myself to swallow. I’d have mini panic attacks and wonder why. I felt strong in my faith and could not my finger on a reason. I know it was an another clever attack from the enemy. He often tempts me with anxiety and fear, opposite of faith.

Two weeks into my sleepless battle, I was weak, emotional, and desperate for a good night’s sleep, so I wrote in my prayer journal for God to help me sleep. That night I climbed into bed and opened up my Bible to Psalm 3 and 4. Here’s what I read:

I lie down and sleep;
I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.
I will not fear the tens of thousands
drawn up against me on every side. Psalm 3:5-6

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

I cried as I read these words. These verses were from God just for me, just when I needed them. I was overwhelmed with the faithfulness of God. He heard my prayer and comforted me with His word.

Praise Him for caring about simple things like sleep and putting them into the Bible for people like me.