Sleep, Precious Child of God
Dear Father,
I’m praying for my friends who struggle to fall asleep each night, who wake up in the darkness with racing hearts and racing minds, who rise too early already in a panic before the sun even comes up.
I pray that before they even crawl into bed, they won’t fear the night. Remove the dread of trying to fall asleep and the anxiety of even the possibility of having their sleep interrupted. Fill their hearts with trust in the God Who gives rest to His beloved.
One by one, gently lift from their shoulders the burdens and worries of the day and the “what-if’s” of tomorrow. Remind them that their Sovereign God holds all things in His capable hands and that they need only to release their grip.
Rise up against any accusations of the enemy that might plague my friends with regrets or shame. Help them to “empty their pockets” in confession, knowing their Heavenly Father forgives completely and loves unconditionally.
Where their hearts are heavy with concerns for loved ones, lead my friends in “tucking in” those loved ones under the covers of their prayers. As they entrust their precious friends and family members to the faithful Night Watchman, may they enjoy a sweet comfort and ease of mind.
When the enemy slips in to steal their peace and rob them of joy, may my friends be quick to cry out to their Advocate Who commands an army of angels standing ready and armed to do battle on their behalf. You are their sure Defender, and You are only a breath of prayer away.
Lord, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.” (Isaiah 26:3) You “will fight for (them); (they) need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) Reel in their thoughts, and take those thoughts captive to dwell on “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable…excellent or praiseworthy.” (Philippians 4:8) Let them “remember the days of long ago…meditate on Your works and consider what Your hands have done.” (Psalm 143:5) Let them count their blessings and praise their God!
Remind my friends of the tender moments when as little children, they crawled into the strong, loving arms of their earthly fathers and rested their heads on Daddy’s chest…how their fears melted in Daddy’s steady, faithful embrace…how his powerful hands brushed back the hair from their foreheads and his deep voice spoke quiet reassurance and protection…how relaxed, peaceful, deep sleep came as Daddy held them and shielded them from all harm.
Abba Father, how much stronger are Your arms, how much steadier is Your embrace, how much more powerful are Your hands, how much more reassuring is Your voice!
Just for tonight, dear Lord, help my friends to know with every fiber of their beings and in every recess of their hearts and minds that they’re safe, held, and deeply loved. Steep them in Your perfect peace, and grant them restful sleep.
Thank You, thank You, thank You.
In the beautiful Name of Jesus, amen.
