A lot of the psalms that David wrote seem like a stream of consciousness where he is working through some sort of struggle. Psalms 4 is one of those.
At first he is asking God to hear him as he goes on about those lying and trying to ruin his reputation. Then he declares the Lord’s goodness and faithfulness. Finally, David offers instruction and help and closes with the words that he can lie down and sleep – in the midst of the reputation woes and other troubles – and do so with a peaceful heart and mind.
He is able to do so, not because the struggles are gone, but because his trust in Almighty God and His goodness is intact.
How many times have we allowed the struggles of our lives wreck our sleep and destroy our health? I’m not talking about staying up in prayer, I’m talking about the tossing and turning, every thought on the lies of this one and that one, the fear and anguish swirling round and round in our minds.
What would it take for you to be able to sleep restfully in the midst of your financial or relationship struggles? What would it require of you to be able to have peace when others seem out to get you and crush your reputation?
Here’s the thing: You can’t stop someone from lying to you or about you. You can’t make someone like you or love you. You can’t make them say nice things to you or about you. You just can’t.
The only one you’re in control of is you, and James says you can’t even control your own tongue!
If you’re not able to effect the change you want in others, why not hand it off to the God of the Universe? Why not let Him handle those people and those issues? He can bring about change when you don’t stand a chance.
Once we truly lay these things off into God’s hands, we can lie down and sleep peacefully. When we trust Him fully to take care of us and the things plaguing us, our rest is complete and sweet.
Let’s give it a try today. Every issue that comes up, immediately tell God about it, including how you feel about it. Then…. take your hands off. Yes, both of them. Even that little finger. Let go. Let. Go.
When the thoughts about that issue return, take them to the first pile and lay them on top of the rest.
When you go to bed, make this declaration aloud and let the meaning permeate your heart. Sleep well, y’all.
Coffee, Bible, Journal.
