Go to Jesus first. Pray before sleeping. Live for JOY – Jesus. Others. Yourself.
These are the outside thoughts of my nine-year-old, who was just caught looking over my shoulder, reading the headline, and quickly suggesting positive affirmations to help you sleep. While that sounds sweet and all, I’m currently getting very little sleep myself as she was at my bedside at 2am this morning with severe stomach aches, thus causing nausea in my own tummy. Yet when I pulled out my laptop this afternoon to write, she immediately woke up, got this sparkle in her eye, and eagerly said, “I love affirmations! Mom, can I help you write today?” I mean, how could I refuse?
So there you have it, my friends. Some affirmations from a lovely little lady who recently accepted Jesus into her heart. Oh, and yes, she’s visibly feeling a little better, thankfully. However, her sweet little response made me think of the pure innocence of a child. If only we could all make our faith so simple and live it in a way that exudes the total joy we get from following Him alone. Perhaps this is why Jesus commands us to have faith like a child (Matthew 18:3)?
Okay, so maybe you’re thinking…How does this help me sleep? Well, as you try to fall peacefully to sleep, only to find yourself tossing and turning, I invite you to remember a time in your life when faith came effortlessly. Meditate a little on this moment. Were you a child or a young adult? Maybe you are walking in this simple faith right now. The truth is, wherever you are on your faith journey, Jesus is ready to meet you where you are and remind you of His steadfast love.
When we possess that kind of childlike heart that allows us to welcome God’s presence, we can slip into a dreamlike state in blissful peace. And I feel like you need it. Yeah, me too! So, join me in embracing the simplicity of your faith tonight by grabbing the “affirmations” above and reciting some beautiful truths that come straight from Scripture. Then, let these words soothe your heart, saturate your mind, and calm your soul as you drift off to sleep.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Biserka Stojanovic

10 Positive Bible Affirmations to Meditate on
Did you know that proclaiming God’s Word in your life has many benefits? It’s true ! If you are restless and have trouble sleeping, recite these scriptures out loud and let God fill you with His peace. After reading each one, reflect on it and invite God to whisper His truths to your weary heart. Then receive His love that transforms your mind to stop your body and put you to sleep.
1. “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in security.” – Psalm 4:8:
2. “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. » – Matthew 28:11
3. “I leave you peace; I give you my peace. I do not give you what the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27
4. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
5. “The sleep of the worker is sweet, whether he eats little or much, but as for the rich, their abundance does not allow them to sleep.” – Ecclesiastes 5:12
6. “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” – Psalm 29:11
7. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares about you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
8. “He said, ‘Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.'” – Psalm 46:10
9. “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” – Proverbs 3:24
10. “So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Every day has problems enough.” – Matthew 6:34
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4 Ways to Promote Good Sleep Habits
If you’re reading this, you’re obviously still wide awake and thinking: what does that give? Well, my friend, if you’re continually exhausted (even during the day), your body may be trying to tell you something. But rest assured and know that if you constantly suffer from restless nights or insomnia, you’re in good company. If it’s any consolation, according to the MD Anderson Sleep Clinic, 62% of Americans struggle to get a good night’s sleep.
The culprit, not surprisingly, is a lack of good sleep habits. A sleepless night here or there won’t do too much damage to your body, but if you regularly experience irregular sleep patterns, it may be time to establish healthy boundaries around your evening. Our bodies simply cannot function or function if we do not sleep well. In fact, lack of rest can lead to a host of health problems, including mental disorder and mood swings, not to mention bigger risks like high blood pressure.
So, try to encourage a few of these habits to get a better night’s sleep.
1. Establish a regular sleep-wake rhythm that allows your body to adopt a circadian rhythm.
2. Create a bedtime routine that leads you to calm your mind. Try reading a book instead of scrolling on your phone. (Yes, you’re more than likely reading this on a screen now, but try turning off screens at least an hour before closing those peepers, as it will help immensely). Additionally, taking a nice bath with Epsom salts or listening to soothing music will help your body relax.
3. Keep your bedroom dark, cool and quiet. Play green or white noise to fall asleep if necessary.
4. Make sure you get some sunshine and exercise during the day, as this will allow your body to be receptive to sleep in the evening.
Photo credit: ©Pexels/Ivan Oboleninov
4 prayers to usher in sleep
Here are some precious “mini” prayers you can whisper as you seek the Lord to help you close your eyes and get some much-needed rest.
God,
As I lie down, please calm my restless mind, my anxious heart, and my weary soul, for I know you hold the promises of tomorrow. Help me to rest peacefully in Your care and to lay at Your feet all the concerns that capture my attention. Thank you for being a good and faithful Father.
Amen.
Lord,
Thank you for the beauty and blessings you have brought today. However, when I reflect on my day, I am often unable to find peace and fall asleep. I humbly ask you to provide me with the rest my body desperately needs.
Amen.
Father,
I am very tired, but I know that You see me and hear the cries of my exhausted heart. This evening I come before you and ask you to have mercy on me and graciously grant me rest.
Amen.
And finally, as we come to a conclusion (and I pray that you are about to sleep or at least have very droopy eyelids), my sick little darling comes strolling into the kitchen where I am writing and asks if she can add a prayer to help you sleep, so there you go.
Dear Jesus,
Thank you so much for this day and for giving me time to spend with my family. Help me feel better and get a good night’s sleep. I love you.
Amen.
Remember to keep it simple as you whisper these affirmations, verses, and prayers. Know that when you seek rest, we serve a God who can grant us not only the desires of our hearts (Psalm 37:4), but the dispositions that allow us to face each day (Philippians 4:19). Today, I lean on this truth and God’s strength as I go through the day getting a few hours of sleep, looking forward to bedtime. May you also find peace in this truth and sleep well tonight, my friend.
Photo Credit: Unsplash/Amaury Gutierrez
This article was originally published on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit Christianity.com.
Originally published on Friday June 26, 2026.