My son, let them not depart from your eyes—keep sound wisdom and discretion; so they will be life to your soul and grace to your neck. Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet. (Proverbs 3:21-24)

How To Sleep In Peace

The creation of the body is an amazing testimony to the wisdom of the Creator. Thousands of things going on in the body go unnoticed unless there is an event attacking the body. Eyes blink without notice, the heart beats its rhythmic patterns about 100,000 times a day, breathing fills the lungs with air followed by exhaling, and the brain processes millions of pieces of data each day. The body is an exhaustive creation that is limited in function if it does not get rest and sleep. Sleep is an essential part of life; without it, the body will destroy itself.

God created the body to require sleep. Everyone requires sleep, whether they are kings or common people. All the wealth in the world will not keep a man from needing sleep. While all men will have to sleep, what becomes a greater challenge is to sleep in peace. There is nothing more powerful than a peaceful night’s sleep; many experience sleepless nights with restless nights over worries, concerns, and fear.

Solomon offers advice for those who have trouble sleeping. One of the causes of sleeplessness is the guilt of sin and worry about the consequences of bad decisions. Throughout the Proverbs, Solomon urges his son not to forget the law of God and the value of divine wisdom. The heart must keep the commandments of the Lord to find happiness. Trusting in the promises of God will give value to life. Fearing the Lord and departing from evil gives strength to the body. A generous heart will reap many blessings from God.

The happy man is the one who finds wisdom and understanding in the word of God. Like a tree of life to those who take hold of her, the word of God will bring hope to the weary heart. Believing that God created man for His glory will help the spirit of a man direct his paths in the light of righteousness. Common sense and discernment will refresh the soul. The value of knowing the will of the Father is how the words of God will keep the heart safe on the journeys of life. Following the righteous commandments of the Lord will keep the feet of trouble far away. And when it is time to sleep, the head can fall upon a pillow soft with the knowledge there is no guilt to trouble the mind because of sin.

The greatest remedy many need to get a peaceful night’s sleep is to remove sin from their lives. Going to bed without fear comes from a deep relationship with the Lord. There are many reasons why some people are troubled with sleep. Do not let the guilt of an ungodly life be the reason. Sleep is essential for good health: the health of the body and the health of the soul. Solomon gives good advice that is sound even after nearly three thousand years. Listen to God. Sleep in peace.