My title for this devotion is Being Asleep vs Being Awake.

As an exercise person, I know one of the essentials to effective exercise is recovery. Allowing the muscles time to recuperate is critical to being on top of my game the next ride. (Since I cycle that is my go-to thought). Did you know one of the most critical elements to recovery is not a protein drink or eating right afterwards or stretching, although they are all important, but something we do naturally? It is something we do and have done since the day we were born. S-L-E-E-P. That’s right. Sleep. Proper rest. Being an effective athlete and thinking sleeping 3-4 hours a night is enough is not going to cut it.

As a follower of Christ, sleep is important. Exhaustion is one of the enemies of clear-headed, sharp thinking. There is no virtue in being bleary-eyed and unable to function. No one can go for long periods of time with sleep deprivation.

EXCEPT GOD. In fact, He needs none. How about I just let the Scripture state the truth: “I life up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” [Psalm 121:1-4]

He neither sleeps nor slumbers. Just as important: He never gets tired either. I need sleep. I get tired (even more and quicker as I get older). But I have the assurance that as I rest, God is alert and never sleeps. That gives the promise of safe and restful sleep since He does all the “worrying” for me.

“Father, thank you for the assurance of You staying awake and being alert while I sleep. Please give me the rest I need to continue fighting the battle for you.”