Elijah’s Story Offers Strength in Weariness

Feeling sleepy? You’re not alone.

According to the CDC, approximately one-third of U.S. adults—about 84 million people—don’t get the recommended amount of sleep. This means 32.8% of the U.S. adult population struggles with sleep deprivation, not including those with sleep disorders. The average adult needs 7–8 hours of sleep per night, yet many fall short of this essential requirement.

Insufficient sleep impacts mental and physical health, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes and mental health issues. It also affects emotional and spiritual wellbeing, and, candidly, makes you less enjoyable to be around.

Biblical Perspective
When Queen Jezebel threatened to kill Elijah, according to the book of 1 Kings, he fled into the wilderness even after seeing God’s power displayed. Tired and scared, he hid and pleaded for God to take his life. Many church workers can relate to his exhaustion. He was a dedicated servant, but he was physically, spiritually and mentally depleted. This skewed his vision of God’s presence.

God recognized that Elijah needed rest—a great reminder that sleep is essential to wellbeing. As Psalm 4:8 reminds us: “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

Even Jesus valued taking time to get away and rest, sometimes by Himself, and other times with the disciples.

Rest as God’s Gift
Someone once said, “Rest is a weapon given to us by God. The enemy hates it because he wants you stressed and occupied.” Our society has convinced us that we don’t need sleep, that we have an unlimited capacity to perform. This couldn’t be further from the truth.

Sleep is restorative and essential to life. God created us with a need for sleep. And while we sleep, He continues watching over us. Martin Luther wrote, “Sleep is a most useful and most salutary operation of nature. Scarcely any minor annoyance angers me more than being suddenly awakened out of a pleasant slumber.”

Prayer and Meditation
Meditation can help quiet your mind, but prayer is even better! Consider reading a psalm or devotional before bed, list three blessings from your day and/or pray for your ministry.

Remember, taking care of your body through adequate sleep isn’t selfish; it’s stewardship. Your congregation, your family and your own spiritual life will benefit from a well-rested you.

Now, get your sleep. God has the night shift covered.

Four tips for a better night’s sleep

Experts offer these proven strategies for a better night’s sleep:

• Create a sleep schedule: Set a regular bedtime and stick to it, even on weekends.
• Optimize your environment: Sleep in a cool, dark room free of distractions. Use a white noise machine if needed.
• Mind your evening routine: Avoid eating or drinking for two hours before bedtime and limit alcohol. Avoid screens with blue light for at least one hour before bed.
• Choose healthy daily habits: Exercise regularly, get sunlight during the day and practice relaxation techniques.