The Secret to a Good Night's Sleep: Devotion Nine

I've found there are two seasons that can be particularly hectic for parents: The end of the school year and right now! While the holidays often hold much joy for our families, we can be also be left spinning to keep up! Whether you need help putting your to-do list aside at night or are struggling with something heavier on your heart (like the loss of a loved one or worry for a child), this devotion is for you this Christmas.

Day 18

“I will both lie down and sleep in peace; for you alone, O LORD, make me lie down in safety.” Psalm 4:8

Sometimes the chaos that consumes our days spills over into the nights as well. It’s one reason I keep a pad of paper on my bedside table; once the day winds down, a flood of to-dos for the next day often comes to mind. I feel relief when I write them down, for then I’m sure that I won’t forget them. But it makes me wonder: Are there bigger things that we need to sign over to Jesus? Are there burdens weighing heavily upon us for which there are no easy steps or tick lists? Once my head hits the pillow, sometimes my prayer is a confident statement rather than a petition. “Lord, I cannot work on this anymore today. I entrust it to your care.” Knowing that God is holding it—and me—allows me to rest better in the arms of Jesus and surrender to the welcome of a good night’s sleep. Today, entrust all of your concerns to God’s care.

Further Reading: Psalm 55:22; Matthew 11:28; 1 Peter 5:7

Remember, if you are enjoying this series, you can receive the whole collection of 31 illustrated and professionally edited Chaos to Calm devotions free to your inbox by following the prompts here! I will share ONE more devotion on New Year's Eve to close the series. Stay tuned next week for some Christmas favorites to put you in the holiday mood and remind us of the true meaning of the season!