Sleepless

Last year, I experienced many restless nights of sleep. I was blessed because I didn’t feel tired during the day, but I often struggled to fall asleep at night. I felt frustrated because I didn’t know how to sleep better or what techniques would help me. Praise God that I’m sleeping much better now, but I know a lot of people struggle with insomnia, sleeplessness, and tiredness. It’s discouraging and worrying, especially when we’re told to get eight hours of sleep every night and when we can’t function well because we’re too exhausted.

But sleeplessness does not equal hopelessness. 

In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety (Psalm 4:8 NASB).

As frustrating as sleeplessness may be, we can learn to be content in it for one reason alone: God is with us through it.

Whether we’re awake or asleep, He still loves us and desires our obedience. He is protecting us. He is holding us. He is shaping us. Even in sleeplessness.

This poem is for the insomniacs, the tired, and the weary.

 

You’re with me in the day.

You walk with me at night.

Lord, even when I rest,

You’re holding me so tight.

 

Even in frustration,

In anger and despair,

You never let me go.

Lord, You are always there.

 

When I fight for my rest,

I know I’m not alone.

Though sleep daunts me tonight,

You are still in control.

Without You, I can’t win

Because You are the King.

But You are still with me

When I can’t fall asleep.

 

The clock reminds me now

That I am still awake

But I can hold to truth–

This pain is not my fate.

 

Lying here in silence,

And lying here in pain,

I know I will find peace

If I just say Your name.

 

When I fight for my rest,

I know I’m not alone.

Though sleep daunts me tonight,

You are still in control.

Without You, I can’t win

Because You are the King.

But You are still with me

When I can’t fall asleep.

 

When I can’t seem to sleep,

I know You’re still awake.

And I’ll wait for the morn’,

To reach the hope of day.

 

Sleepless but not helpless,

Lonely but not alone.

I will not fear this night

Because I have this hope.

 

When I fight for my rest,

I know I’m not alone.

Though sleep daunts me tonight,

You are still in control.

Without You, I can’t win

Because You are the King.

But You are still with me

When I can’t fall asleep.