Day 6 — Sleep in Peace

“I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.”

— Psalm 4:8 (BSB)

For a lot of kids (and grown-ups too!), nighttime is when fears come out. During the day you’re busy, and there’s light and noise everywhere. But at night, when the lights go off and the house gets quiet, your mind starts racing. Every creak sounds like a footstep. Every shadow looks like something scary. Worries you didn’t even think about during the day come crowding in.

Have you ever lain awake at night, unable to fall asleep because you were scared or worried?

David knew what that was like. He wrote Psalm 4 during a hard time, when people were against him. But look at how he ends it: “I will lie down and sleep in peace.”

How could he do that? The next words tell us: “for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.”

David knew that locks on the doors and guards at the gate weren’t what really kept him safe. God was. And God never sleeps. Psalm 121 says, “your Protector will not slumber” (Psalm 121:3). While you sleep, God stays awake. He’s watching over you all night long.

Here are a few ideas for nights when you can’t sleep:

• Talk to God. Tell Him exactly what you’re scared of. He’s awake and listening.
• Say a verse. Quietly repeat Psalm 4:8, Psalm 56:3 or Psalm 23:1.
• Count your blessings. Instead of counting sheep, thank God for things one by one.
• Remember who’s in charge. God is in control, and He loves you.
• Tell a grown-up. If fears keep you awake a lot, talk to your parents. There’s nothing embarrassing about it.

It’s also okay to have a night-light, or to ask for a hug. God gave you people to comfort you, and that’s one of the ways He cares for you.

Tonight, when the lights go out, remember: you’re not alone in the dark. The God who never sleeps is watching over you.

Think about it: What helps you feel safe at night? What worries or fears tend to come at bedtime?

Try this: Tonight, before you fall asleep, say Psalm 4:8 as a prayer. Then name three things you’re thankful for.

Dear God, thank You that You never sleep, and that You watch over me all night long. When I lie down tonight, help me sleep in peace. When I’m scared in the dark, remind me that You alone make me safe. In Jesus’ name, Amen.