In peace, I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
– Psalm 4:8
When you think of all the trouble King David had gone through, it is hard to imagine him getting a good night’s sleep. As a young boy, he slept out in the dark nights tending sheep, ready to protect them from bears and lions. For a long period of time, he ran for his life from King Saul. As a warrior, his life was repeatedly in jeopardy through many battles.
He told the Lord in today’s verse, “You alone, make me dwell in safety.” Everything was not perfect when David went to bed at night. He had plenty to be afraid of. He did not have home security systems, sleeping aids, or night lights. He depended on God for a peaceful sleep. How much more should believers turn to the Lord for peace, safety, and sleep? Proverbs 3:24 says of those who seek God’s wisdom and confidently trust in Him, “If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.”
A lot of money is spent today on getting a decent night’s sleep. The news about rising crime rates, disease, and other catastrophes can tempt you to turn your eyes on the Lord, making it hard to get a peaceful sleep. Intentionally turn your mind to trust in the Man who could sleep in a boat out on a stormy sea. Meditate on today’s verse and many more like it. Count your blessings instead of sheep. Say with David, “In peace, I will both lie down and sleep,” confident in God’s safekeeping.
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