SWHW Bible Reading Plan: August 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Jess Hatton:

“When I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night; for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.” Psalm 63:6-7

Have you ever struggled with insomnia? Though I'm not one who often has sleepless nights, I do occasionally have a span of several nights in which I’m restless. During those nights I find myself tossing and turning in the bed, allowing my mind to wander and often allowing it to get the better of me. 

Anxious, worrisome, and stressful thoughts often creep their way in and then follow the rollercoaster of emotions. At that point, sleep is unattainable. David, in Psalm 63, is struggling with a sleepless night; however, David’s sleepless night was most likely caused by something more life-threatening. 

Psalm 63 was written while David was in the wilderness, most likely on the run from King Saul who was trying to kill him. Here we see that during the middle hours of the night, when David normally should have been sleeping, he was watching for threats on his life. Most of us probably are not facing life-threatening situations, but no matter what our anxieties are, we can find wisdom from David in how to handle them.  

David found God to be more satisfying and life-sustaining than water or the richest of foods. He praised Him for His sustenance. (63:1,5) 

Even in his darkest hour, David could not help but praise God. (63:6) 

David recognized that God was both his sole help and strength. (63:7-8) 

David took advantage of the quiet hours of the night, when everyone was asleep, and meditated on the Lord. Any waking moment, no matter how light or dark, can be an opportunity to turn your mind toward worship. Perhaps on your next sleepless night, rather than checking the clock every hour, refocus your mind and worship your Provider. After all, He is the source of your energy and strength.

Heavenly Father, I ask for rest. Whether the ladies reading this need physical rest or emotional rest, I pray that You would give them what their souls need. I pray that for those of us who lie awake struggling to find sleep, that we would take the quiet moments to turn to praise and seek Your refuge. Teach us that You alone Lord, are the sustainer of life. Amen.