Day 12: Psalm 4
Answer me when I call to you,
my righteous God.
Give me relief from my distress;
have mercy on me and hear my prayer.
2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame?
How long will you love delusions and seek false gods?
3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself;
the Lord hears when I call to him.
4 Tremble and do not sin;
when you are on your beds,
search your hearts and be silent.
5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous
and trust in the Lord.
6 Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?”
Let the light of your face shine on us.
7 Fill my heart with joy
when their grain and new wine abound.
8 In peace I will lie down and sleep,
for you alone, Lord,
make me dwell in safety.
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This passage reminds me of my 7-year-old nephew. He is often afraid when he goes to bed at night and, through scripture, my sister-in-law reminds him that God is with him – that he does not need to be afraid, but that he can sleep soundly and in peace.
I once read a story about a 4-year-old girl who was getting ready for bed and was afraid of the dark. When the lights went out, she noticed the moon shining into her bedroom window and asked, “Mommy, is that God’s light up there?” Her mom replied with, “Yes, it is.” The little girl then asked, “Will God put His light out when He goes to sleep too?” To which came the reply, “Oh no, God never goes to sleep.” After the girl thought for a bit she said, “As long as God is awake, I’m not scared.”
In the midst of so many troubles, David continually turned to the Lord, who, as the scripture says, “relieved his distress and heard his prayer.” God gives us encouragement and gladness of heart.
Despite any opposition we face, despite loneliness we may feel, despite doubts and fears that can flood over us and rob us of much needed rest, we can confidently lie down in peace and sleep, knowing that God cares for us beyond what we could ever ask or imagine. He is with us day and night! We can rest in the Lord!
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Pam Little | Director of Children's Ministry, Lima Community Church