What's On Your Mind?

Have you ever had one of those nights when you try to go to sleep but your mind is going in a million directions? It happens to all of us. It happens to me. I’m tired and want to sleep, but all of a sudden my mind fills up with all the stuff of the day, the things that are coming up, my next sermon, thoughts about my family, the things that are happening in the world around me, etc. I try to sleep but my mind flies in every direction except towards sleep.  

It seems that, especially in the environment in which we live, our minds are constantly racing, thinking, and making decisions. The political environment around us, our newsfeeds, social media, and the constant stimuli that bounces against our brains all feed into the hyperactivity of our minds. Then add to all of that the normal concerns of life: family matters, jobs, the tasks that need to get done around the house. With so much to think about—so much coming into our brains—it’s no wonder we have those nights when our minds won’t slow down enough to allow us to sleep. In fact, studies show that about 30% of adults have some sort of insomnia. We might call that a bit of a sleep crisis!  

I believe that the Apostle Paul’s words are more relevant than ever before. In a time when so many thoughts can take over our minds, to the point of stealing sleep from us, we need to take hold of the words Paul wrote to the Philippian church: 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:6-8 – NIV – emphasis mine) 

The answer to all the things that might keep us from sleep, is not working harder to get rid of all those thoughts (e.g. “Don’t think about that!”), but to replace them with thoughts about all the good and positive things God pours into our lives. The answer is to look to God as the One who is able to fill us with peace, grace, mercy, hope, and love. The answer is to look to God as the One who able to still our minds and give to us true rest and sleep.  

May the words of the Psalmist be reflected in each of our lives, “In peace I will lie down and sleep,  for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:8) 

Have a great day!  And, may tonight the Lord give you sleep as you rest in him. 

- Pastor Tim Harris