Fruitfulness or Faithfulness?

Ever been wide awake at night? Maybe you’re afraid of the unknown. Maybe you’re overwhelmed with a never-ending to-do list. Maybe you’re heartbroken by injustice and brokenness in the world.

When I can’t sleep—which happens to me a lot—I often end up reading the Psalms. They are like a prayer journal: the psalmists praise God in times of celebration and cry out to Him in their darkest nights. In Psalm 77, the psalmist is in a dark place, and he starts by talking to God honestly about how he is feeling: “Will the Lord reject forever and never again show favor? Has his faithful love ceased forever? Is his promise at an end for all generations? Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?†(verses 7-9).

Then, the mood of the psalm changes when the psalmist turns from his worries and pain and remembers all God has done for him in the past (verses 11 and 12). God has been faithful, saving the psalmist and his people from their enemies, leading them every step of the way (verses 15-20).

No matter our circumstances, God is constant and faithful (Hebrews 13:8). If you are a Christian, your future is secure in Jesus. Remember God’s never-ending love for you. Remember Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Remember the promises you have in Christ (see for example, Romans 8). Think about how Jesus has been with you through similar times in the past (Matthew 28:20). In Christ, you have unshakeable hope no matter what the day ahead may bring. • Abby Ciona

• Read Psalm 77 and Romans 8. What are some truths about and promises from God you can remember when you are facing sleepless nights? Who are trusted Christians in your life you can reach out to during tough times, such as pastors, parents, teachers, or counselors?

• If you need someone to talk to about something keeping you up at night, you can set up an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on
the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate.

I will both lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, Lord, make me live in safety. Psalm 4:8 (CSB)

Read Verses:

1 Corinthians 3:5-9