When You Can’t Sleep During Divorce

One thing I often recall about my divorce recovery journey are the many mornings where there seemed to be no choice but to get out of bed, because sleep had become such an elusive respite. I would wake up and cry, be terrified, tormented by memories, lonely, and… you all know the list. I felt helpless and exhausted.

So What Can You Do?

As time passed and the sleepless nights continued, I decided I needed to be proactive. I learned to read, and pray, and worship, and most importantly… to listen! I began spending those restless hours journaling encouraging verses.

Journaling was an especially helpful process for me during my divorce. Journal entries can help you reflect on both how far you’ve come, and the lessons you are learning along the way.

I can’t really recall a specific moment when things started to change, but gradually my ears went from hearing only painful thoughts, to peaceful ones. Those once dark hours became treasured quiet moments amidst the storm of my divorce. God met me in my heartache.

God Is In Control

After I wake in the morning, the first thing I usually say to myself is “be still and know that I am God.” When I can submit to the truth that God is in control, my fears and anxieties subside.

For anyone out there who is entering into this treacherous season, know that as time passes, peaceful sleep does return. Trust God to meet you in the darkness, in the meantime. Those restless midnight hours may become an unexpected blessing along your journey.

“Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in Him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is near. Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.” Philippians 4:4-7 (The Message)