Studies in Psalms - Psalm 4

PSALM 4 - How To Sleep Well

In Psalm 3 we found a morning prayer in which we see how to start off the day facing the difficulties of life. Psalm 4 is the evening counterpart of Psalm 3. We know that the days we face are often difficult, even to those who faithfully follow the ways of Christ. Christians are not promised lives of ease, actually, quite the opposite. Jesus told us this in John 16:33, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” The promise is that we can have peace despite anything the world throws at us. But take notice that Jesus said “in me you may have peace.” He has overcome the world, not us.

So, in Psalm 4 we find a prayer for the evening. And in this prayer, are several commandments in which we must obey if we are to be “in Christ.”

We see that David begins his prayer with questions. It’s ok to go to our Father after a hard day and let Him know we are struggling.

Psalm 4:1-2

Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer! O men, how long shall my honor be turned into shame? How long will you love vain words and seek after lies? Selah

David remembers how God has helped Him in the past and he refuses to compromise with those who love “vain words” and “seek after lies.” How familiar does that sound to us today? As Christians, the world and its satanic-led media is on constant attack against the truth of God’s Holy Word.

In the next verse, I cannot help but picture David in prayerful communication with God and as He prays, God’s Spirit is speaking to his heart. David is reminded of God’s grace and God’s mercy.

Psalm 4:3
But know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself; the LORD hears when I call to him.

Again, a reminder to us as Christians that God has called us out of the world to be set apart for Himself. We are to be different. We are not to compromise and tolerate the sinful life the world is trying to force down our throats. God hears our prayers when we commit to the holiness of His commands. So, we stand with God and His Holy law. Sometimes we will battle with our anger at the enemy. Next we find a list of commands to follow and to pray for as we end the day.

Psalm 4:4-5
 Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. Selah
 Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the LORD.

First of all, be angry but in that anger, do not sin. Paul echoes this in Ephesians 4:26 and reminds us not to let the sun go down on our anger. Take it to God and leave it with Him. Then you can rest and sleep in peace.

Search your own heart. Before going to bed take a hard look at yourself. Be honest and you will see that you have your own sins to repent and confess. Maybe you hurt someone and their sleep will be disturbed. Maybe a quick word of kindness and confession to someone before bed will give both of you a better night’s sleep.

Be silent. Ask the Holy Spirit to remind you of any sins and then just quietly let Him speak to you. God often speaks quietly to us in whispers but we don’t hear because we are too busy talking.

Offer right sacrifices. Maybe in that quiet time God has spoken on how you can serve Him best. What better things to think on as you go to sleep then how tomorrow you can serve God?

And finally. Trust the Lord. This is what faith is. In this quiet prayer allow God’s Holy Spirit to remind you of how great God’s provision really is. Ask Him for more faith.

David begins to wrap up here and he says this in verses6-7.

 
There are many who say, “Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O LORD!” You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.

In other words, praise God, for His gifts are far greater than what the world and its stuff have to offer.

Then take your nightly rest in Christ. You can trust Him and if you do peace that transcends all understanding will come.

Psalm 4:8
In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.

Rest in Him.