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

Psalm 4:8

How do you deal with insomnia? Do you toss and turn, anxiously fretting your way through precious night hours, praying for sleep to find you? A friend of mine recommended reading the psalms. He will get up from a restless night, grab his glasses and Bible, and head for the living room where, for a time, he’ll be transported into the land of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving. When someone asked him if he felt guilty nodding off while in conversation with God, he responded, “No. It’s good to know that the last thing on my mind that day is my Lord. It sure beats worry.” Try it the next time you are faced with a sleepless night of fretting or anxiety. Grab the psalter and lie down in peace.

Don Hinchey
Loveland, CO

God of light and darkness, let me rest in your word and in you. Amen.

Reflect: Take time during the day to mark psalms for reading at night.

Read: Psalm 27 and Psalm 103