by Victoria Heinecke

Trusting for a good night’s sleep.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“The sun rises and the sun sets,
    and hurries back to where it rises.”
Ecclesiastes 1:5 New International Version (NIV)

Sunsets are a regular treat in Colorado. Framed by the Rocky Mountains, they offer a spectacular backdrop at the end of a long day and remind us that it will soon be time for sleep.

Ah, a peaceful sunset, followed by slumber. It sounds wonderful, unless insomnia is your companion.

A recent medical condition had disrupted my sleep for months. Chronic fatigue led to naps, which left me too wired to go to sleep at a more normal hour. When I did sleep, I’d wake up every couple of hours. It wasn’t unusual for me to get out of bed at 4:00 in the morning and watch the sun rise through sleep-deprived eyes.

Eventually, something had to give. The main culprit, it turns out, was a tiny growth on one of four glands, but I had to wait until it had become large enough to identify which gland to remove.

Wait and pray. Instead of dreading sleep, the sunset became an inspiration.

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.“
Psalm 121:1-2 NIV

Recently, the growth was removed, and I am beginning to find the rest my body needs to heal.

Many things can cause sleep to flee from us: worry, grief, and illness are a few sources. One thing is certain – God holds everything in his hand. He will take your worries and concerns. Holding onto our worries robs us of the peace that comes only from trusting fully in God’s providence.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Matthew 11:28-29 NIV

 At night give your worries to God. He will be up all night, anyway.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado