If you’re struggling to quiet your mind before sleep because you have a thousand thoughts ping-ponging through your mind; if you can’t lie still because your body is carrying so much tension; if you find yourself afraid of things you can’t even put into words—prayer is a wonderful solution.
Prayer refocuses our thoughts onto what is true and good. It calms anxiety by reconnecting us with our Father when we’ve allowed ourselves to get distracted by all the cares of this world. Remember that Jesus is always there, ready to listen to everything burdening your heart. So accept the invitation. Talk to Him. Tell Him what you’re feeling. Pray.
Here are three prayers from the Psalms to pray when you can’t sleep.
I lay down and slept, yet I woke up in safety, for the Lord was watching over me. – Psalm 3:5
God, I’m so weighed down by everything going on in my life. It seems impossible that I’ll ever be able to quiet my mind and my heart enough to fall asleep. I know I can’t do it on my own strength, so right now I lean on You, and accept the rest You so generously give me. Help me to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep through the night. Keep any bad dreams far from my mind. In Jesus’ name, amen.
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. – Psalm 4:8 NLT
Jesus, I need You near right now, because sleep feels so far off. I’m trying to surrender my worries to You, but I’m not sure how. The night is so long and dark, and I’m afraid in ways I can’t really explain. You know my heart, though, so I ask in Your name that You would meet me in this moment and help me calm down. Thank You for keeping me safe, for guarding and protecting me through the night. In Your name, amen.
He will not let you stumble; the One who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, He who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. – Psalm 121:3-4 NLT
Heavenly Father, it’s such a comfort to know that You never sleep. You keep watch over me every moment of the day and night. Even as I lie here, unable to rest, worrying and anxious over so many things, You are with me. You are my companion through every dark and lonely hour. Thank You, Lord, for such amazing grace. Help me to breathe deeply and release any tension I’m carrying in my body so that I can fall asleep. In Jesus’ name, amen.
