Devotional Thoughts for Those Who Have Trouble Sleeping

Psalm 127:2 says that the Lord “gives His beloved sleep.”

Some might read that verse and wonder, “So does that mean if I am having trouble sleeping, God doesn’t love me?”

On the contrary, God may be using your insomnia to get your attention, stretch your faith, call you to prayer or worship, or teach you valuable lessons in patience and dependence on Him.

As Christians, we are called to trust in God and cast all our cares upon Him. However, when we find ourselves tossing and turning at night, it can be difficult to remember to rely fully on the Lord. Here are some devotional thoughts for those who have trouble sleeping.

Remember God’s Promises
The Bible is full of promises from God that we can hold onto, especially in the “wee hours” when problems seem to feel more exaggerated. Psalm 4:8 says, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” This verse reminds us that we can trust God’s protection, provision, and guidance—and find peace in Him. Spend uninterrupted quiet time calling to mind the multitude of promises God has given to you as His child.

Pray for Peace
When we’re feeling anxious or restless, our best course of action is to turn to prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “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.” Turn your worries into conversations with God, specifically praying for peace and asking God to guard your heart and mind.

Meditate on Scripture
Most of us have a desire to commit more Scripture to memory but can’t seem to “find the time.” Perhaps God is carving out some time for you! Another way to find peace amid sleeplessness is to meditate on and repeat passages from the Bible. Psalm 119:148 says, “My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises.” Take some time to read through the Psalms or another favorite book of the Bible and allow God’s Word to bring comfort to your soul.

Focus on Gratitude
When we’re struggling to sleep, it’s easy to become fixated on our worries and concerns. Fears loom larger in the dark hours of the night. However, focusing on gratitude can help shift our perspective. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Instead of dwelling on your problems, take time to think about the things you’re grateful for and thank God for His blessings.

Trust in God’s Sovereignty
Remember that God is in control, even when things feel out of our control. Psalm 121:3-4 says, “He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” In other words, God will stay up so you don’t have to. Take comfort in knowing that God is always watching over you and trust in His sovereignty.

Does Something in Your Life Need to Change?
And finally, don’t underestimate the influence that physical and emotional factors may be having on your sleep routines. Things like nutrition, caffeine, stress, lack of exercise, screen time, medications, light, background noise, or temperature may have more of a sway over your sleeping patterns than you give them credit for. Ask God to give you wisdom and show you areas that you should adjust in order to experience more restful nights.

No matter what the cause, your sleepless hours can be transformed from a source of frustration to a time of intimacy with the Lord if you approach them with a renewed perspective and a prayer to work all things (even your insomnia) together for your good and His glory.