When Sleep is Illusive

     Lake Tahoe at dusk

Have you ever woken up in the early hours of the morning, with a sense that everything is falling apart?  Before you shut your eyes things didn’t seem so bad, but now the possibilities for disaster seem endless?

That was my experience recently.  After falling asleep easily, a few hours later I suddenly woke up feeling very uneasy; my mind flooded with worry. The problems piled up at lightning speed, and within moments I found myself feeling overwhelmed and anxious.  It’s hard to “take your thoughts captive” when your brain is so foggy.

After tossing and turning for a while, I finally gave up on any further rest.  Reaching for my bible, journal and a soothing cup of herbal tea, I snuggled into a comfy chair and picked up my pen.  Soon I was pouring my heart out before the Lord.

I’ve been journaling for as long as I can remember.  By writing my thoughts down, I gain valuable perspective.  Soon the problems no longer seem quite so intimidating—especially as I begin to surrender each one to the Lord.  I also find it helpful to write out my “go to” verses.  Many are committed to memory, but I love to copy them onto the page; the words somehow imprinting more deeply onto my heart and becoming a balm to my soul.

Philippians 4:6-7, are two of my favorites (NLT):  “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.  Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.  Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything that we can understand.  His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer, combined with meditating on the truths of God’s word, are the two greatest weapons we have to combat worry and anxiety.  Try it next time you’re feeling overwhelmed.  Whether it’s in the middle of the night, or in the midst of your busy day, cry out to the One who knows your name.  Remind Him of His promises and cling to His truth.  Time and time again My God has been more than faithful to settle my heart, as I fix my eyes on Him.

For me, that’s nothing short of miraculous.

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