Are There Monsters Lurking Under Your Bed?
We all have monsters
The Lord is your protector; the Lord is your shade right beside you. The sun won’t strike you during the day; neither will the moon at night. The Lord will protect you from all evil; God will protect your very life. The Lord will protect you on your journeys — whether going or coming — from now until forever from now. (Psalms 121:5–8, ECB)
Children often ask parents to check their rooms before turning off the light at bedtime. It may be merely a bedtime delay tactic, but some children are scared.
I remember being afraid of the creepy man under my bed. That is why I never slept without covers, even in hot weather, as if a blanket could protect me.
A kind parent will take the time and effort to check every nook and cranny for those elusive monsters to reassure their child. A nice drink of water, bedtime stories, soothing songs, hugs, kisses, and prayer may dissuade their fears.
Are we honestly any different than children with our monstrous fears?
We lay awake at night thinking of our children, marriage, relationships, failures, and finances. A myriad of issues may hide in the closets of our minds, haunting us like Frankenstein. A night light will not help.
Who will be the parent who checks out our room for our monsters?
(Deuteronomy 31:8, GW) says,
The Lord is the one who is going ahead of you. He will be with you. He won’t abandon you or leave you. So don’t be afraid or terrified.
Does your situation seem dire and hopeless?
Are you dreading the doctor’s diagnosis, your child’s behavior, your spouse’s aloofness, or your job security? Are you afraid of the future or dreading a change in your life?
Does there seem to be no end to your dark, scary tunnel?
Jesus can be your trustful Father, your confidant, and your protector. He may not solve your problems, but He will remove fears, anxieties, and the motivators of sleeplessness.
He gives peace and calm during the creepy times of life. He will show you that in His capable hands, the evil one has no power. What looks like monsters are character builders, compassion makers, empathy enablers, and lessons for a victorious life in Christ.
We hate the discipline of learning lessons. Don’t we?
For a short time, our fathers disciplined us as they thought best. Yet, God disciplines us for our own good so that we can become holy like him. We don’t enjoy being disciplined. It always seems to cause more pain than joy. But later on, those who learn from that discipline have peace that comes from doing what is right. (Hebrews 12:10–11, GW)
Do you want peace? Then endure your discipline with grace, and give all your fears to your Father in heaven. He will check out the path ahead of you. He will look under your bed, in your closet, and around the door. He will keep you safe and sound as you snuggle securely in His arms of love. Give your monsters to God and get some sleep.
