Is there an answer for society's epidemic of sleeplessness?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I’m a sleepless soul. The only time to think is when I go to bed – not to sleep, but to think. The problem then is that I start to worry. Surely there is some way to get rest rather than depending on sleep aids. I read that this is becoming an epidemic in our society. Is there an answer? – S.N.
A: Many people have trouble falling asleep at night. Some take over-the-counter sleeping pills; others require prescription medication to sleep.
Often, sleeplessness is a restless spirit and not a chemical imbalance that keeps us from getting what our bodies and minds need. It’s good to remember that the Bible instructs us to lie down in sleep and dwell in safety (see Psalm 4:8). One of the best ways we can help ourselves at the close of the day is to direct our thoughts toward God, who gives rest in our weariness.
The Psalms are perhaps the most soothing place in Scripture for one to turn to shut out the stresses and troubles of the day. Sleeplessness is not new. King David, who wrote many of the psalms, soothed the mind and heart of the king, and no doubt his own troubled soul.
God desires that we rest in Him. He knows that we need it in order to work effectively while we’re awake. So, when sleep is difficult, read from the book of Psalms. There is joy in its message and peace in its instruction. We can pray and ask God to give restoration to our body, mind, and soul.
“I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, until I find a place for the Lord, a dwelling place for the Mighty One” (Psalm 132:4–5, NKJV). Take solace in the fact that the Lord will be with us when we are resting in Him.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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