Home » Blog » Prayer » Prayers for Stronger Faith » When You Can’t Sleep, Pray

Author

Tags

Share this story

When You Can’t Sleep, Pray

How to turn insomnia into prayer.

blog_insomnia_1540
Credit: Getty Images
Prayer is a powerful force for good. At Guideposts, we believe in the strength of prayer to bring comfort, hope, and healing. Your generous donation today will help us continue to share the power of prayer with those in need. Together, through prayer and support, we can make a difference.

I awoke at 2 a.m., blinking my eyes at the shadows cast by streetlights outside our apartment.  Sometimes it’s 1:30, other times it’s 3, but at some point in the night I am usually up. I assume it’s an age thing.

I’ve learned what to do. I close my eyes and mentally pull out my prayer list. This is as good a way as any to fill the dark hours: I whisper a name, and–because I have no original thoughts at that hour –say the Lord’s Prayer or part of a Psalm on that person’s behalf. I give back to God the words He gave us, for the benefit of someone else.

Praying Scripture is simple and straightforward. It requires only a movement of the heart, a murmur of love on the lips. I begin my prayers remembering people who are probably up in the middle of the night as well: the friend whose husband died a few weeks ago, the mom with brain cancer, the mother of a newborn, a college student.

Read More: A Psalm for Insomnia

I move on to those staggering through financial nightmares, fearful about an addicted teen, in physical pain. If I’m still awake, I pray for politicians I disagree with and people I dislike. That almost always puts me to sleep right away.

Hence I’ve decided that although it would be nice to sleep through the night, it’s okay if I can’t. Every hour of the day belongs to the Lord: He made all 24. If it’s good to worship Him when I’m awake, it’s fine to come before Him half-asleep. I think He’s pleased either way. 

Share this story

WWJ Devotionals Autumn Thanksgiving 2024 Right Rail Ad

Community Newsletter

Get More Inspiration Delivered to Your Inbox

Donate to change a life together

Scroll to Top