Restful

As you prepare for sleep at night, do you:

• Have a nightlight on?
•  Wear a sleep mask?
•  Play soothing music to fall asleep by?
•  Review your list of worries?

One of the interesting aspects of the Bible is the different kinds of writing styles it includes. One of the most common artistic styles is poetry and it is used in the book of Psalms in creative ways. Consider these excerpts from Psalm 9:

1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
3 Surely he will save you
from the fowler’s snare
and from the deadly pestilence.
4 He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
5 You will not fear the terror of night,
nor the arrow that flies by day
6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
nor the plague that destroys at midday. (vv1-6)

Consider the images of God and the way He protects us in this Psalm. Which stand out for you? 

Where might be a place of refuge for you?
What might be a current-day example of a fowler’s snare (v3)? It may be related to your living circumstances, your job, your family, or challenges you fearfully face (even like addictions, people, or finances).

Verse 5 mentions “the terror of the night.” What kinds of things come to mind as you think about that? 

What is effective for you when you face fears at night that may prevent rejuvenating sleep? Consider:

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

And finally, consider this portion of Psalm 25 that you can use as a prayer message to God when you are feeling alone, or anxious:

1 In you, Lord my God,
I put my trust.
2 I trust in you;
do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
3 No one who hopes in you
will ever be put to shame,
but shame will come on those
who are treacherous without cause.
4 Show me your ways, Lord,
teach me your paths.
5 Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
6 Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love,
for they are from of old.