Let Go of Anxiety & Experience PEACE Trusting God 🕊 Fall Asleep Resting in God's Word

find rest as you listen to this peaceful bedtime story for more bible stories that bring you refreshing sleep download the abide app in the itunes or google play store welcome to this abide bedtime story where you will be guided into a deep and peaceful sleep hearing words of peace and comfort from the bible i'm james seawood instead of your mind being filled with anxiety you will be encouraged to think about the things that are true and lovely honorable and pure excellent and worthy of praise let god speak to your heart as you hear his word so settle deeply into your bed let your head rest heavily on your pillow as you relax every muscle in your body take a deep slow breath hold it for a moment and then release it feeling the tension of your day fade away feel the comfort of your warm covers the peacefulness of this moment don't let in any distractions tell them to go away this is your time to be with the lord as he guides you into deep sleep without worry or concern keep breathing deeply and slowly as you listen letting your body ease into sleep father god i bring this child of yours before you today and ask you for your favor i already know that you love them deeply and i asked that you would give them that assurance as well i pray that as they sleep their dreams would be of those things that are honorable and lovely and worthy of praise keep away all distractions concerns and stresses so that they can rest peacefully may the sound of my voice telling them of the wonders of you and your world blow them quickly into sleep that lasts the whole night through and is refreshing and rejuvenating i ask these things knowing that your desire is for them to live abundantly in you it's in the name of jesus that i pray amen your purpose on this earth is to enjoy god and to serve him forever to dwell on his excellent greatness to fill your mind and heart with his word anything else you are given to do will be fueled by these things philippians chapter 4 verse 8 and the amplified bible says finally believers whatever is true whatever is honorable and worthy of respect whatever is right and confirmed by god's word whatever is pure and wholesome whatever is lovely and brings peace whatever is admirable and of good repute if there is any excellence if there is anything worthy of praise think continually on these things center your mind on them and implant them in your heart your time tonight will be spent letting your mind dwell on these things first here are some things that are true told by the scriptures romans chapter 8 verse 28 and we know that for those who love god all things work together for good for those who are called according to his purpose all things that's a promise god will work all things together for good first john chapter 1 verse 9 if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness faithful and just that's who god is if he says he will do something you can be sure that he will do it if you have confessed your sins you are cleansed from all unrighteousness john chapter 3 verse 16 for god so loved the world that he gave his only son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life oh beloved rest in that truth he loves you so much [Music] lord god your word is trustworthy let this precious child dwell on these things as they sleep tonight write them on their heart bind your truths to them so they live and breathe them day in and day out let them hear only words of truth your word is truth amen now let those things that are honorable dwell in your mind let's turn to the sermon on the mount from matthew chapter 5 to see behavior that is honorable to god said you have heard that it was said an eye for an eye and a tooth for tooth but i say to you do not resist the one who is evil but if anyone slaps you on the right cheek turn to him the other also and if anyone would sue you and take your tunic let him have your cloak as well and if anyone forces you to go one mile go with him two miles give to the one who begs from you and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you you have heard that it was said you shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy but i say to you love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you so that you may be sons of your father who is in heaven for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust for if you love those who love you what reward do you have do not even the tax collectors do the same and if you greet only your brothers what more are you doing than others do not even the gentiles do the same let these honorable things dwell in your thoughts jesus you don't ask us to do anything that you don't then enable us to do so as this child of yours thinks about doing honorable things help them to know that they are not doing them alone in their own strength but by the power and might of your holy spirit dwelling within them and we will thank you and praise you for that power in your name amen let your mind dwell on that which is just deuteronomy chapter 10 verse 18 [Music] he executes justice for the fatherless and the widow and loves the sojourner giving him food and clothing and chapter 32 verse 4 of that same book the rock his work is perfect for all his ways are justice a god of faithfulness and without iniquity just and upright is he give justice to the weak and the fatherless maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute god is a god of justice it is in his very nature to be just let your mind dwell on these things lord god thank you for your justice that we can always know that you will do the right thing whether we see it today or years from today we can trust that you will follow through on your word help this child of yours tonight as they dwell on your justice give them hope and courage in the name of jesus amen think about those things that are pure psalm 12 verse 6 is a perfect place to start the words of the lord are pure words like silver refined in a furnace on the ground purified seven times let the words of god fill your dreams as you hear him speak to you his words are pure psalm 19 verse 8 the precepts of the lord are right rejoicing the heart the commandment of the lord is pure enlightening the eyes first timothy chapter 1 verse 5 the aim of our charge is love that issue is from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith when the temple of god was being built everything was to be made of those things that were pure there were to be no impurities in the temple now you are the temple of god the holy spirit dwells in you dwell on the lord and keep your heart pure holy lord there is nothing pure aside from you so i pray that his beloved child listening tonight will guard their heart from all impurities as they dwell on your word that is true just and pure thank you for promising them your strength in the name of jesus i pray amen here is what god considers lovely that you should dwell on it psalm 84 verse 1 how lovely is your dwelling place o lord of hosts isaiah chapter 52 verse 7 how lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news who announces peace and brings good news of happiness who announces salvation and says to zion your god reigns maybe you've thought about the fact that the feet of those who bring the news of jesus are lovely but they are dwell on those messengers on those who proclaim the messiah the savior of the world jesus you are the messiah you are the savior of the world and those who would speak about you to others are lovely to dwell on i pray that this precious one listening tonight will be one who has the lovely feet of a messenger of your gospel grant them peace as they dwell on the loveliness of your dwelling and the telling of the good news in your name amen in the new testament the early church fathers were directed to appoint people who had good reputations they were devoted to the lord and to their families they were ones who were worthy of being looked up to they would fulfill their duties in the church well proverbs 22 verse 1 says a good name is to be chosen rather than great riches and favor is better than silver or gold first timothy chapter 5 verses 9 through 10 describes a widow who could be given help by the church it says let a widow be enrolled if she is not less than 60 years of age having been the wife of one husband and having a reputation for good works if she has brought up children has shown hospitality has washed the feet of the saints cared for the afflicted and has devoted herself to every good work let your mind dwell on what it's like to know a person such as this loves to serve others is hospitable cares for the afflicted let the peace such a person brings envelope your heart father we praise you for your gifts that allow us to serve others and to serve you i ask your blessing on this beloved child as they sleep tonight that you would bring to their mind that which is of good repute that they would dwell on that and not on those who do not honor you it's all for the sake of jesus amen here is what is excellent and should fill your thoughts psalm 150 verse 2 praise him for his mighty deeds praise him according to his excellent greatness titus chapter 3 verse 8 the saying is trustworthy and i want you to insist on these things so that those who have believed in god may be careful to devote themselves to good works these things are excellent and profitable for people hebrews chapter 8 verse 6 but as it is christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better since it is enacted on better promises excellent greatness excellent works a more excellent covenant think upon these things dear heavenly father there is so much excellence in your name and your character and your mighty works help this loved one tonight to dwell on the excellent greatness of your name and the excellent ministry of our lord jesus as they rest in you tonight it's in the matchless name of jesus that we pray amen and now we will close with the words of revelation chapter 5 verse 11 through 13. which tells us why the lord jesus above all else is worthy of praise then i looked and i heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands saying with a loud voice worthy is the lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing and i heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea and all that is in them saying to him who sits on the throne and to the lamb be blessing and honor in glory and might forever and ever amen and amen sleep and peace dear one dwelling on the things of god tonight our sleep story is about god's passionate promise our story reveals how god pours out his spirit upon all his people you will hear the comforting message from god's word but before we begin get comfortable breathe deeply inhale god's peace as you relax you feel god's amazing love for you as you sink into your mattress your breath becomes deliberate relaxed your muscles go from being tight to soft like cotton close your eyes imagine god's holy light washing over you picture yourself giving him all of your burdens your thoughts and concerns breathe in his hope exhale is love the bible says that god will pour out his spirit upon all people that sons and daughters will prophesy and young men will see visions old men will dream dreams with that join me as we explore this passionate promise god has given us when you receive christ into your life his spirit lives inside you however that is just the beginning god longs for you to understand the depth of what this means to experience his power to move in the miraculous to extend his grace and to shine his light into the world ask god to open the eyes of your heart let his light flood you with truth feel his heavenly touch his love filling every part of your being as you do this breathe deeply inhale is love exhale your burdens and cares keep breathing slowly and steadily as you listen to my voice and feel the presence of the lord with you embrace the stillness around you listen for god in the silence experience the rest you have longed for dear heavenly father i am ready for more of you i am grateful for every prayer you have answered every blessing you have bestowed on me the very life you have given me i also know there is so much more for me to learn so much more of you to experience the bible says that your people perish for a lack of wisdom make me wise god make me more like you forgive me of my sins show me where i am missing the mark i want to be everything you created me to be so that i can one day hear well done my good and faithful servant help me to fully grasp what your promises are to me i love you i trust you deepen my trust as you deepen my sleep tonight in jesus name i pray amen [Music] your eyes are closed your head rests gently on your pillow you continue breathing deeply and slowly relaxing the sound of the wind blowing eases your soul you think about the dreams and visions that god has promised to give to his people you long for that you ask god to show you himself and your dreams you ask god to show you himself in your dreams i'm so glad you asked for that says a far away voice come you look around wondering who is talking to you no one is there but feel a presence a warm glow growing inside you you step outside and begin to walk slowly down a path on one side glimmers of sunlight shine upon a river flowing with crystal blue water tall trees full of life and bearing fruit you've never seen decorate the bank brightly colored flowers of purple red orange and pink burst through the ground the other side of the path is full of flowers and trees as well but there is no fruit on the trees the flowers are wilted the colors fading some are tangled in weeds the river is stagnant you come to a fork in the path and pause you listen for the voice that beckoned you out of bed but there is only silence i'm still here you look up and even though you don't see anyone you realize this is the voice of god i pour out my spirit on everyone but not everyone recognizes me the two sides of the path are examples of what happens when you believe in me and when you try and do things on your own when you spend time with me listen to my words pay attention to the signs wonders dreams and visions i send you every day you will survive every storm life brings every day you will get stronger when you share my love with others you will experience miracles you will do great and mighty things in my name [Music] guide motions to the other side of the path [Music] when you do things the world's way you don't follow in my footsteps and listen for my voice life is harder you don't have the peace i promised i created you to soar on wings like eagles i am always blessing my people with signs wonders visions and dreams but some are too busy to listen others have let their hearts become hardened some people have an idea of me but that idea is only a part of me they like to keep me in a box they dismiss the supernatural power the very nature of me therefore when the rain comes and the storms of life hit they aren't able to experience the fullness of me within them it is my deepest desire that all of my people experience the fullness of me i send them just like i am sending you tonight dreams visions signs and wonders to stir their spirit i want to renew your heart and revive your soul i want you to walk in victory and in power this is my will my purpose and my plan for you you hold on to god's voice it leads you over a steep hill mist fills the foggy air you pause to wipe the dew from your eyes you hear the laughter of children you take one more step up and stand still in awe majestic mountains surround you people of all ages colors and nationalities dive into breathtaking turquoise water their smiles exceed their faces it's as if they are diving into life they throw their heads back laughing and rejoicing in gloriously there is a white beach the sun shines brilliantly the sand feels like silk children sit at a small white picnic table while adults read with them they're shaded by enormous trees draped with spanish moss that looks like tinsel hung on a christmas tree you reach down and dip your hand into the water instinctively you pull your hand back the water is electric powerful it feels like love are you in heaven you've never felt like this before love penetrates through the air it radiates from the heart of every person you feel it in the water you want to stay here longer but like a soft breeze you feel yourself drifting away you now find yourself in a forest full of tall thick trees there is very little light you're on a path but sometimes that path is hard to see you squint trying to see through the darkness you smell the sharp scent of decomposing leaves the wetness of a recent rain the gravel path under your feet seems firm enough but not being able to see concerns you you take a timid step forward when you find your feet still firmly on the path you take another step then you feel the presence of the lord beside you taking your hand gripping it firmly yet gently you can trust me he says i will not let you go i know the way perfectly i will walk with you through this darkness i will walk with you through this darkness your heart is calmed your breathing slows you begin to notice the light filtering through the swaying branches the birds calling to each other through the leaves the small yellow flower poking its way through the thick underbrush god is showing you beauty where you thought there was just darkness his presence has shown the light on this dark path you are filled with peace once again you are swept away to a green lush valley the sun shines brightly there is a small stream running swiftly through the center of the valley bubbling crisply over small stones it's idyllic brown gray black and tan horses grazed peacefully there are no signs of fear in them you breathe in the scent of warm grass feeling the softness under your feet you sit and wait for something and then beside you is the lord his eyes soft and kind i lead you beside streams of water i provide everything that you need he says bright red birds race by fluttering and chittering happy the birds of the field don't worry about what they will wear or what they will eat they have everything they need he turns and looks at you and the kindness and love that you see in his eyes bring tears to yours my beloved child you have everything that you need too in the next moment you find yourself back in your soft warm bed in your room in your home safe surrounded by peace i pour out my spirit on people says the soft voice from above i bless them with dreams and visions so that they may know my love my power so they will remember my desires for them while on this earth and to remind them that there is so much more to come will you share the dream i've blessed you with tonight the sound of your own voice crying yes yes fills you for a second you wonder where you are you must have been dreaming but it felt so real it was real whispers god i made a passionate promise to you when i said ask and it will be given to you seek and you will find knock and the door will be opened for you you asked me to show you what it was like to experience more of me and i answered now it is up to you to believe you're still for a second longer lingering in god's presence basking in his love dear heavenly father help this dear one sleep peacefully tonight may you bring sweet comfort thank you for revealing yourself in our dreams may the silence of the night bring revelation and clarity of thought rising in the morning refreshed rested thank you for your word your passionate promises they are a love letter to me and i am forever grateful help me be open to all of your ways god align my will with yours help me shine your light into the world in jesus name i pray amen i hope you enjoyed this abide bedtime story we look forward to spending time with you again tomorrow until then may you abide in christ tonight's meditation a faith-filled life is written to usher you into deep restful sleep as you dwell on the life of faith into which you have been called by god the book of hebrews chapter 11 is filled with stories of people who have lived lives of faith it tells of the things they trusted god for even when they could not see a way through themselves that same faith in that same faithful good god is available to you all you need to do is grasp it and then rest in it so as we begin settle into your bed and take a slow deep breath feel your heart rate begin to slow relax your neck muscles and your shoulders clench and unclench your fence keep breathing slowly and deeply then as you exhale release the worries and burdens that you have carried with you today now is the time to let god renew your strength let me pray for you dear faithful father i thank you for your care for each one of us as your precious child sinks into deep sleep tonight cover them in the assurance of your love and your presence if they wake during the night let your whispers of love cause them to drift quickly back to sleep remind them that you are always with them and that you will never leave them let them be confident in their faith no matter how small because you are big even a mustard seed of faith can do great things because that faith is in you hold them closely in your arms tonight lord for they are your precious child it's in your holy name that i pray amen imagine walking into a room where there are hundreds of people all sitting on chairs they're laughing and talking some are even singing a song of praise to god there are lots of chairs still left they are humble looking chairs but obviously comfortable as they are very much like the ones everyone else is sitting in there are slight differences maybe in the shade of the wood or the height of the legs but they are all fundamentally the same they are sound they are reliable they can be trusted to hold up the one sitting in them as you look around wondering what chair you should choose you notice some really elaborate looking chairs some look like thrones they are softly cushioned and decorated all over with glittering gold and gemstones your eyes are glued to them that's the kind of chair you want it's very flashy it must be very comfortable in fact you're pretty sure you've heard about others who have sat in this kind of chair you're sure it's the kind of chair that will hold you firmly for years to come something you can really trust and so you head to one it's actually up on a high dice so you have to climb some steps to get to it once you climb the steps and boy there were more than you initially noticed you have to input a code into a keypad on a gate that surrounds the chair you hadn't really noticed that gate before it takes you a while to figure out what the code is nobody has told you the secret but man you really want to sit in that chair finally you figure it out and the gate opens then you notice that you have to carefully walk over some stepping stones crossing a turbulent river to actually reach the dice it didn't look this hard from down below but you're determined to get there so you carefully tread across the stones finally you reach the chair you sit anticipating the comfort of the seat but to your utter dismay it completely collapses dumping you on the ground chagrin you look up to see jesus standing before you and reaching for your hand with a smile on his face when you reach out to take his hand you understand the grandeur of what you put your faith in didn't matter the fanciest chair won't hold you if it's not strong it's not the amount of faith you have that matters it's what you put your faith in that does and so you let jesus lead you to one of the humble rough-hewn chairs you joined the throngs of people who came in the room before you they appear confident and happy fitting comfortably into the chairs they have been in for many many years they never wear out they never let them down they hold them firmly through all that they do no analogy is perfect of course our god is bigger than a chair but the truth is still applicable you can have the largest amount of belief ever that something unreliable will hold you up or the smallest amount of faith in the god of the universe and that grain of faith in the almighty god will make all the difference as you continue breathing deeply and slowly listen to the words of hebrews 11 from the new living translation faith shows the reality of what we hope for it is the evidence of things we cannot see through their faith the people in days of old earned a good reputation by faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at god's command that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen it was by faith that abel brought a more acceptable offering to god than cain did abel's offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man and god showed his approval of his gifts although abel is long dead he still speaks to us by his example of faith it was by faith that enoch was taken up to heaven without dying he disappeared because god took him for before he was taken up he was known as a person who pleased god and it is impossible to please god without faith anyone who wants to come to him must believe that god exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him it was by faith that noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood he obeyed god who warned him about things that had never happened before by his faith noah condemned the rest of the world and he received the righteousness that comes by faith it was by faith that abraham obeyed when god called him to leave home and go to another land that god would give him as his inheritance and even when he reached the land god promised him he lived there by faith for he was like a foreigner living in tents and so did isaac and jacob who inherited the same promise abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations a city designed and built by god it was by faith that even sarah was able to have a child though she was barren and was too old she believed that god would keep his promise and so a whole nation came from this one man who was as good as dead a nation with so many people that like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore there is no way to count them all these people died still believing what god had promised them they did not receive what was promised but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it they agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own if they had longed for the country they came from they could have gone back but they were looking for a better place a heavenly homeland that is why god is not ashamed to be called their god for he has prepared a city for them it was by faith that abraham offered isaac a sacrifice when god was testing him abraham who had received god's promises was ready to sacrifice his only son isaac even though god had told him isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted abraham reasoned that if isaac died god was able to bring him back to life again and in a sense abraham did receive his son back from the dead it was by faith that isaac promised blessings for the future to his sons jacob and esau it was by faith that jacob when he was old and dying blessed each of joseph's sons and bowed in worship as he leaned on his staff it was by faith that joseph when he was about to die said confidently that the people of israel would leave egypt he even commanded them to take his bones with them when they left it was by faith that moses parents hid him for three months when he was born they saw that god had given them an unusual child and they were not afraid to disobey the king's command it was by faith that moses when he grew up refused to be called the son of pharaoh's daughter he chose to share the oppression of god's people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin he thought it was better to suffer for the sake of christ than to own the treasures of egypt for he was looking ahead to his great reward it was by faith that moses left the land of egypt not fearing the king's anger he kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible it was by faith that moses commanded the people of israel to keep the passover and to sprinkle blood on the doorsteps so that the angel of death would not kill their firstborn sons it was by faith that the people of israel went through the red sea as though they were on dry ground but when the egyptians tried to follow they were all drowned it was by faith that the people of israel marched around jericho for seven days and the walls came crashing down it was by faith that rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey god for she had given a friendly welcome to the spies how much more do i need to say it would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of gideon barack samson jephthah david samuel and all the prophets by faith these people overthrew kingdoms ruled with justice and received what god had promised them they shut the mouths of lions quenched the flames of fire and escaped death by the edge of the sword their weakness was turned to strength they became strong in battle and put the whole armies to flight women received their loved ones back again from death but others were tortured refusing to turn from god in order to be set free they placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection some were jeered at and their backs were cut open with whips others were chained in prisons some died by stoning some were sawed in half and others were killed with the sword some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats destitute and oppressed and mistreated they were too good for this world wandering over deserts and mountains hiding in caves and holes in the ground all of these people earned a good reputation because of their faith yet none of them received all that god had promised for god had something better in mind for us so that they would not reach perfection without us ordinary people serving an extraordinary god it's not the size of your faith that matters it's the one you put your faith in the one who created the world and holds it all together the one who loves you unconditionally let his holy spirit fill you with all the faith that you need to live a life pleasing to god because heaven awaits us we know there is something better coming and trusting god with today is just a foretaste of the faith that will be rewarded when we receive eternal life let me pray over you lord jesus shine the light of your love over your beloved child tonight let them bask in the glow of your glory as they sleep peacefully trusting in your watch care over them may their dreams be about you and the people who have embodied faith from the bible may they wake refreshed ready to trust you in the big and the small because you care about them both we love you and we worship you it's all because of jesus amen [Music] all anxiety can be released right now in the name of jesus jesus himself comforts us in these words from john chapter 14. do not let your hearts be troubled you believe in god believe also in me dear friend if you are in trouble tonight please know you are not alone let's pray holy god in light of the uncertainty going on in the world right now we know that you have not left us to handle things on our own instead lord you remain on your throne as you always have and always will you are high and lifted up you are all seeing all-knowing and almighty god thank you father for being a constant presence in the midst of uncertainty thank you for never leaving us or forsaking us in you we find peace we will follow the words of your son jesus and believe that you can turn our troubled hearts into hearts of peace right here right now we release every bit of anxiety and tension caused by the unknowns we believe you are sovereign we believe you are in control and we believe you are on your throne in the mighty name of jesus we pray amen now take a deep breath in and release it slowly invite the holy spirit to be with you if you are able open your arms wide to receive the peace of his presence allow everything else to fade away pull the warm covers over you and rest your head softly on the pillow as we pray for trouble-free hearts and minds in christ jesus gracious god our keeper and friend thank you for standing watch over this child as they enter into a time of calm quiet and restful sleep as your spirit fills the room lord please fill their soul with serenity and peace of mind breathe in the presence of god breathe out the troubles of your heart in the lord there is perfect peace that exceeds all understanding allow his peace to surpass everything you are thinking in the lord there is unshakable hope a hope that goes beyond what we see feel or hear cling to that unwavering hope tonight in the lord there is comfort and joy embrace those things above the things of this world remain in the presence of god as you inhale and exhale allow your breathing to settle into a soft steady rhythm let all thoughts drift away as you think only of the spirit of the lord covering you with peace lord god in the quiet hours of the night i pray for your holiness to cover this beloved one with songs of joy and comfort i pray that you sing over them songs of deliverance the sound of your voice lord is what we long to hear above all voices opinions and perceptions we want to hear you thank you lord that we can open your word and freedom and find the answers we need i pray that this listener will seek you through your word and find the peace they desire bless them with quiet rest tonight in jesus name release all the tension you've been carrying for so many days now feel your shoulders relax and the rest of your body fully unwind let go of every concern of every troubled thought let go jesus calms us with his words do not let your hearts be troubled surrender your troubled heart to him release your worries like a child who lets go of her balloon and watch as the wind carries it away higher and higher it goes until it is a mere dot in the sky so the lord carries our troubles far away until we see them no more [Music] gracious god i pray that your child will experience the immense freedom that is found as they let go of their burdens lord please carry their troubled thoughts far away replace those thoughts with remembrances of who you are that they might have an unshakable faith in an unmovable god you are holy you are just you are light love and hope thank you lord for who you are in the name of your son jesus amen jesus said i am the way and the truth and the life no one comes to the father except through me rest securely in jesus the way the truth and the life remain in the father through the lord jesus christ he is with you he loves you he will not forsake you father thank you for sending your son jesus he is the way the truth and the life what security this brings us we try to navigate this unknown season we need not worry or fear or forge our own path we need simply to walk in your way abide in your truth and live in your peace in jesus name amen as the scriptures remind us let us rejoice in the lord always i will say it again rejoice let your gentleness be evident to all the lord is near do not be anxious about anything but in every situation by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to god and the peace of god which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in christ jesus the lord is near breathe deeply in his presence do not be anxious about anything instead with the heart of thanksgiving offer your prayers and petitions to god please let me offer a petition to the lord on your behalf precious savior king of kings and lord of lords with the heart of thanksgiving i pray on behalf of this beloved child that they will find rest in your presence tonight lord jesus as you are in the father and the father is in you we are assured of your complete sovereignty please assure this listener that you are in control that you will work everything out according to your glory i ask that you keep this child in the fold of your peace through every moment of every season help them to know that you are still on the throne you are still doing mighty things and you will do even greater things in the days to come please lord come the heart mind and spirit of this person tonight that they will not be troubled but find peaceful rest in you amen in the comforting words of jesus we hear this faithful promise i will do whatever you ask in my name so that the father may be glorified in the son you may ask me for anything in my name and i will do it let the comforting words of jesus sink deeply into your spirit tonight this promise is for every believer who calls upon the name of the lord jesus christ that the father may be glorified in the son rest in the good pleasing and perfect will of the lord find peace in his name the name above every other name dear god i pray for a special blessing over this person tonight as they find quiet untroubled sleep during this uncertain time in your name i ask that you will be their shelter of peace their refuge of strength and their fortress of hope the focus of their unshakeable faith lord please wash over them like a waterfall cascading down the side of a beautiful mountain refreshing renewing life-giving water cleansing them from all anxious thoughts in jesus name amen [Music] jesus offered another promise to his disciples in john chapter 14 he said i will ask the father and he will give you another helper that he may abide with you forever the spirit of truth i will ask the father thank you god that we can come to you and ask of you thank you that the veil was torn so that we could enter the holy of holies enter into the blessed sanctuary of god's presence he will give you another helper the holy spirit our helper our guide through every season breathe in the spirit of truth tonight exhale all other thoughts about the holy spirit jesus also said you know him for he lives with you and will be in you the holy spirit lives with you he abides in you remain in him heavenly father thank you for sending a helper for us the spirit of truth and peace we welcome your presence here for when you are with us and live in us there is no room for anxiety the holiness of who you are shines so brightly in our lives there is no place for dark thoughts or shadows of concern thank you lord for being light and life in a dark world we trust you in you we find peace comfort and hope in jesus name amen finally jesus offered these words of great comfort all this i have spoken while still with you but the advocate the holy spirit whom the father will send in my name will teach you all things and will remind you of everything i have said to you peace i leave with you my peace i give you i do not give to you as the world gives do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid all this i have spoken while still with you be with us now lord jesus the holy spirit will remind you of everything i have said to you thank you lord for reminding us that you are still on the throne wash over us with truth and light filter out all the negative things and fill us to the full with your goodness and peace peace i leave with you my peace i give you god's peace is a gift a gift for us to open and embrace allow me to open the gift of god's peace over your life tonight heavenly father i receive your gift of peace the gift of your presence humbly i open your gift and share it with this beloved child tonight cover them with the blanket of your grace and mercy please continue to comfort them through the night watches draw them near and help them sleep deeply and contently in your name lord glorify your name and all the earth in every city country and continent let your name be known reveal yourself to the nations and open people's eyes to see that you are still on the throne i thank you lord for covering this faithful person tonight from head to toe you have covered them your presence is exactly what is needed in this time and place holy god as you continue to quiet this beloved child in love and peace please guard them as they sleep untroubled and unconcerned tonight help them to awaken refreshed and renewed with a deep sense of calm and peace a peace that surpasses all understanding i pray that their hearts will no longer be troubled that they will not be afraid because they have an unshakable faith in you it is in the trusted name of jesus i pray welcome to this abide bedtime story where you will be guided into a deep and peaceful sleep hearing words of peace and comfort from the bible i'm james seawood instead of your mind being filled with anxiety you will be encouraged to think about the things that are true and lovely honorable and pure excellent and worthy of praise let god speak to your heart as you hear his word so settle deeply into your bed let your head rest heavily on your pillow as you relax every muscle in your body take a deep slow breath hold it for a moment and then release it feeling the tension of your day fade away feel the comfort of your warm covers the peacefulness of this moment don't let in any distractions tell them to go away this is your time to be with the lord as he guides you into deep sleep without worry or concern keep breathing deeply and slowly as you listen letting your body ease into sleep father god i bring this child of yours before you today and ask you for your favor i already know that you love them deeply and i ask that you would give them that assurance as well i pray that as they sleep their dreams would be of those things that are honorable and lovely and worthy of praise keep away all distractions concerns and stresses so that they can rest peacefully may the sound of my voice telling them of the wonders of you and your world lull them quickly into sleep that lasts the whole night through and is refreshing and rejuvenating i ask these things knowing that your desire is for them to live abundantly in you it's in the name of jesus that i pray amen your purpose on this earth is to enjoy god and to serve him forever to dwell on his excellent greatness to fill your mind and heart with his word anything else you are given to do will be fueled by these things philippians chapter 4 verse 8 and the amplified bible says finally believers whatever is true whatever is honorable and worthy of respect whatever is right and confirmed by god's word whatever is pure and wholesome whatever is lovely and brings peace whatever is admirable and of good refute if there is any excellence if there is anything worthy of praise think continually on these things center your mind on them and implant them in your heart your time tonight will be spent letting your mind dwell on these things first here are some things that are true told by the scriptures romans chapter 8 verse 28 and we know that for those who love god all things work together for good for those who are called according to his purpose all things that's a promise god will work all things together for good [Music] first john chapter 1 verse 9 if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness faithful and just that's who god is if he says he will do something you can be sure that he will do it if you have confessed your sins you are cleansed from all unrighteousness john chapter 3 verse 16 for god so loved the world that he gave his only son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life oh beloved rest in that truth he loves you so much lord god your word is trustworthy let this precious child dwell on these things as they sleep tonight write them on their heart bind your truths to them so they live and breathe them day in and day out let them hear only words of truth your word is truth amen now let those things that are honorable dwell in your mind let's turn to the sermon on the mount from matthew chapter 5 to see behavior that is honorable to god jesus said you have heard that it was said an eye for an eye and a tooth for tooth but i say to you do not resist the one who is evil but if anyone slaps you on the right cheek turn to him the other also and if anyone would sue you and take your tunic let him have your cloak as well and if anyone forces you to go one mile go with him two miles give to the one who begs from you and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you you have heard that it was said you shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy but i say to you love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you so that you may be sons of your father who is in heaven for he makes his son rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust for if you love those who love you what reward do you have do not even the tax collectors do the same and if you greet only your brothers what more are you doing than others do not even the gentiles do the same let these honorable things dwell in your thoughts jesus you don't ask us to do anything that you don't then enable us to do so as this child of yours thinks about doing honorable things help them to know that they are not doing them alone in their own strength but by the power and might of your holy spirit dwelling within them and we will thank you and praise you for that power in your name amen let your mind dwell on that which is just deuteronomy chapter 10 verse 18 he executes justice for the fatherless and the widow and loves the sojourner giving him food and clothing and chapter 32 verse 4 of that same book the rock his work is perfect for all his ways our justice a god of faithfulness and without iniquity just and upright is he give justice to the weak and the fatherless maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute god is a god of justice it is in his very nature to be just let your mind dwell on these things lord god thank you for your justice that we can always know that you will do the right thing whether we see it today or years from today we can trust that you will follow through on your word help this child of yours tonight as they dwell on your justice give them hope and courage in the name of jesus amen think about those things that are pure [Music] psalm 12 verse 6 is a perfect place to start the words of the lord are pure words like silver refined in a furnace on the ground purified seven times let the words of god fill your dreams as you hear him speak to you his words are pure psalm 19 verse 8 the precepts of the lord are right rejoicing the heart the commandment of the lord is pure enlightening the eyes first timothy chapter 1 verse 5 the aim of our charge is love that issue is from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith when the temple of god was being built everything was to be made of those things that were pure there were to be no impurities in the temple now you are the temple of god the holy spirit dwells in you dwell on the lord and keep your heart pure holy lord there is nothing pure aside from you so i pray that his beloved child listening tonight will guard their heart from all impurities as they dwell on your word that is true just and pure thank you for promising them your strength in the name of jesus i pray amen here is what god considers lovely that you should dwell on it psalm 84 verse 1 how lovely is your dwelling place o lord of hosts isaiah chapter 52 verse 7 how lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news who announces peace and brings good news of happiness who announces salvation and says to zion your god reigns maybe you've thought about the fact that the feet of those who bring the news of jesus are lovely but they are dwell on those messengers on those who proclaim the messiah the savior of the world jesus you are the messiah you are the savior of the world and those who would speak about you to others are lovely to dwell on i pray that this precious one listening tonight will be one who has the lovely feet of a messenger of your gospel them peace as they dwell on the loveliness of your dwelling and the telling of the good news in your name amen in the new testament the early church fathers were directed to appoint people who had good reputations they were devoted to the lord and to their families they were ones who were worthy of being looked up to they would fulfill their duties in the church well proverbs 22 verse 1 says a good name is to be chosen rather than great riches and favor is better than silver or gold first timothy chapter 5 verses 9 through 10 describes a widow who could be given help by the church it says let a widow be enrolled if she is not less than 60 years of age having been the wife of one husband and having a reputation for good works if she has brought up children and shown hospitality has washed the feet of the saints has cared for the afflicted and has devoted herself to every good work let your mind dwell on what it's like to know a person such as this loves to serve others is hospitable cares for the afflicted let the peace such a person brings envelope your heart father we praise you for your gifts that allow us to serve others and to serve you i ask your blessing on this beloved child as they sleep tonight that you would bring to their mind that which is of good repute that they would dwell on that and not on those who do not honor you it's all for the sake of jesus amen here is what is excellent and should fill your thoughts psalm 150 verse 2 praise him for his mighty deeds praise him according to his excellent greatness titus chapter 3 verse 8 the saying is trustworthy and i want you to insist on these things so that those who have believed in god may be careful to devote themselves to good works these things are excellent and profitable for people hebrews chapter 8 verse 6 but as it is christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better since it is enacted on better promises excellent greatness excellent works a more excellent covenant think upon these things dear heavenly father there is so much excellence in your name and your character and your mighty works help this loved one tonight to dwell on the excellent greatness of your name and the excellent ministry of our lord jesus as they rest in you tonight it's in the matchless name of jesus that we pray amen and now we will close with the words of revelation chapter 5 verse 11 through 13 which tells us why the lord jesus above all else is worthy of praise then i looked and i heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands saying with a loud voice worthy is the lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing and i heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea and all that is in them saying to him who sits on the throne and to the lamb be blessing and honor in glory and might forever and ever amen and amen sleep in peace dear one dwelling on the things of god tonight our sleep story is about god's passionate promise our story reveals how god pours out his spirit upon all his people you will hear the comforting message from god's word but before we begin get comfortable breathe deeply inhale god's peace as you relax you feel god's amazing love for you as you sink into your mattress your breath becomes deliberate relaxed your muscles go from being tight to soft like cotton close your eyes imagine god's holy light washing over you picture yourself giving him all of your burdens your thoughts and concerns breathe in his hope exhale his love [Music] the bible says that god will pour out his spirit upon all people that sons and daughters will prophesy and young men will see visions old men will dream dreams with that join me as we explore this passionate promise god has given us when you receive christ into your life his spirit lives inside you however that is just the beginning god longs for you to understand the depth of what this means to experience his power to move in the miraculous to extend his grace and to shine his light into the world ask god to open the eyes of your heart let his light flood you with truth feel his heavenly touch his love filling every part of your being as you do this breathe deeply inhale is love exhale your burdens and cares keep breathing slowly and steadily as you listen to my voice and feel the presence of the lord with you embrace the stillness around you listen for god in the silence experience the rest you have longed for dear heavenly father i am ready for more of you i am grateful for every prayer you have answered every blessing you have bestowed on me the very life you have given me i also know there is so much more for me to learn so much more of you to experience [Music] the bible says that your people perish for a lack of wisdom make me wise god make me more like you forgive me of my sins show me where i am missing the mark i want to be everything you created me to be so that i can one day hear well done my good and faithful servant help me to fully grasp what your promises are to me i love you i trust you deepen my trust as you deepen my sleep tonight in jesus name i pray amen your eyes are closed your head rests gently on your pillow you continue breathing deeply and slowly relaxing the sound of the wind blowing eases your soul you think about the dreams and visions that god has promised to give to his people you long for that you ask god to show you himself and your dreams you ask god to show you himself in your dreams i'm so glad you asked for that says a far away voice come you look around wondering who's talking to you no one is there but feel a presence a warm glow growing inside you you step outside and begin to walk slowly down a path on one side glimmers of sunlight shine upon a river flowing with crystal blue water tall trees full of life and bearing fruit you've never seen decorate the bank brightly colored flowers of purple red orange and pink burst through the ground the other side of the path is full of flowers and trees as well there is no fruit on the trees the flowers are wilted the colors fading some are tangled in weeds the river is stagnant you come to a fork in the path and pause you listen for the voice that beckoned you out of bed but there is only silence i'm still here you look up and even though you don't see anyone you realize this is the voice of god i pour out my spirit on everyone but not everyone recognizes me the two sides of the path are examples of what happens when you believe in me and when you try and do things on your own when you spend time with me listen to my words pay attention to the signs wonders dreams and visions i send you every day you will survive every storm life brings every day you will get stronger when you share my love with others you will experience miracles you will do great and mighty things in my name guide motions to the other side of the path when you do things the world's way you don't follow in my footsteps and listen for my voice life is harder you don't have the peace i promised i created you to soar on wings like eagles i am always blessing my people with signs wonders visions and dreams but some are too busy to listen others have let their hearts become hardened some people have an idea of me but that idea is only a part of me they like to keep me in a box they dismiss the supernatural power the very nature of me therefore when the rain comes and the storms of life hit they aren't able to experience the fullness of me within them it is my deepest desire that all of my people experience the fullness of me i send them just like i am sending you tonight dreams visions signs and wonders to stir their spirit i want to renew your heart and revive your soul i want you to walk in victory and in power this is my will my purpose and my plan for you you hold on to god's voice it leads you over a steep hill mist fills the foggy air you pause to wipe the dew from your eyes you hear the laughter of children you take one more step up and stand still in awe majestic mountains surround you people of all ages colors and nationalities dive into breathtaking turquoise water their smiles exceed their faces it's as if they are diving into life they throw their heads back laughing and rejoicing in glorious glee there is a white beach the sun shines brilliantly the sand feels like soap children sit at a small white picnic table while adults read with them they're shaded by enormous trees draped with spanish moss that looks like tinsel hung on a christmas tree you reach down and dip your hand into the water instinctively you pull your hand back the water is electric powerful it feels like love are you in heaven you've never felt like this before love penetrates through the air it radiates from the heart of every person you feel it in the water you want to stay here longer but like a soft breeze you feel yourself drifting away you now find yourself in a forest full of tall thick trees there is very little light you're on a path but sometimes that path is hard to see you squint trying to see through the darkness you smell the sharp scent of decomposing leaves the wetness of a recent rain the gravel path under your feet seems firm enough but not being able to see concerns you you take a timid step forward when you find your feet still firmly on the path you take another step then you feel the presence of the lord beside you taking your hand gripping it firmly yet gently you can trust me he says i will not let you go i know the way perfectly i will walk with you through this darkness i will walk with you through this darkness your heart is calmed your breathing slows you begin to notice the light filtering through the swaying branches the birds calling to each other through the leaves the small yellow flower poking its way through the thick underbrush god is showing you beauty where you thought there was just darkness his presence has shown the light on this dark path you are filled with peace once again you are swept away to a green lush valley the sun shines brightly there is a small stream running swiftly through the center of the valley bubbling crisply over small stones it's idyllic brown gray black and tan horses graze peacefully there are no signs of fear in them you breathe in the scent of warm grass feeling the softness under your feet you sit and wait for something and then beside you is the lord his eyes soft and kind i lead you beside streams of water i provide everything that you need he says bright red birds race by fluttering and chittering happy the birds of the field don't worry about what they will wear or what they will eat they have everything they need [Music] he turns and looks at you and the kindness and love that you see in his eyes bring tears to yours my beloved child you have everything that you need too in the next moment you find yourself back in your soft warm bed in your room in your home [Music] safe surrounded by peace i pour out my spirit on people says the soft voice from above i bless them with dreams and visions so that they may know my love my power so they will remember my desires for them while on this earth and to remind them that there is so much more to come will you share the dream i've blessed you with tonight the sound of your own voice crying yes yes fills you for second you wonder where you are you must have been dreaming but it felt so real it was real whispers god i made a passionate promise to you when i said ask and it will be given to you seek and you will find knock and the door will be opened for you you asked me to show you what it was like to experience more of me and i answered now it is up to you to believe you're still for a second longer lingering in god's presence basking in his love dear heavenly father help this dear one sleep peacefully tonight may you bring sweet comfort thank you for revealing yourself in our dreams may the silence of the night bring revelation and clarity of thought rising in the morning refreshed rested thank you for your word your passionate promises they are a love letter to me and i am forever grateful help me be open to all of your ways god align my will with yours help me shine your light into the world in jesus name i pray amen i hope you enjoyed this abide bedtime story we look forward to spending time with you again tomorrow until then may you abide in christ tonight's meditation a faith-filled life is written to usher you into deep restful sleep as you dwell on the life of faith into which you have been called by god the book of hebrews chapter 11 is filled with stories of people who have lived lives of faith it tells of the things they trusted god for even when they could not see a way through themselves that same faith in that same faithful good god is available to you all you need to do is grasp it and then rest in it so as we begin settle into your bed and take a slow deep breath feel your heart rate begin to slow relax your neck muscles and your shoulders clench and unclench your fence keep breathing slowly and deeply then as you exhale release the worries and burdens that you have carried with you today now is the time to let god renew your strength let me pray for you dear faithful father i thank you for your care for each one of us as your precious child sinks into deep sleep tonight cover them in the assurance of your love and your presence if they wake during the night let your whispers of love cause them to drift quickly back to sleep remind them that you are always with them and that you will never leave them let them be confident in their faith no matter how small because you are big even a mustard seed of faith can do great things because that faith is in you hold them closely in your arms tonight lord for they are your precious child it's in your holy name that i pray amen imagine walking into a room where there are hundreds of people all sitting on chairs they're laughing and talking some are even singing a song of praise to god there are lots of chairs still left they are humble looking chairs but obviously comfortable as they are very much like the ones everyone else is sitting in there are slight differences maybe in the shade of the wood or the height of the legs but they are all fundamentally the same they are sound they are reliable they can be trusted to hold up the ones sitting in them as you look around wondering what chair you should choose you notice some really elaborate looking chairs some look like thrones they are softly cushioned and decorated all over with glittering gold and gemstones your eyes are glued to them that's the kind of chair you want it's very flashy it must be very comfortable in fact you're pretty sure you've heard about others who have sat in this kind of chair you're sure it's the kind of chair that will hold you firmly for years to come something you can really trust and so you head to one it's actually up on a high dice so you have to climb some steps to get to it once you climb the steps and boy there were more than you initially noticed you have to input a code into a keypad on a gate that surrounds the chair you hadn't really noticed that gate before it takes you a while to figure out what the code is nobody has told you the secret but man you really want to sit in that chair finally you figure it out and the gate opens then you notice that you have to carefully walk over some stepping stones crossing a turbulent river to actually reach the dice it didn't look this hard from down below but you're determined to get there so you carefully tread across the stones finally you reach the chair you sit anticipating the comfort of the seat but to your utter dismay it completely collapses dumping you on the ground chagrin you look up to see jesus standing before you and reaching for your hand with a smile on his face when you reach out to take his hand you understand the grandeur of what you put your faith in didn't matter the fanciest chair won't hold you if it's not strong it's not the amount of faith you have that matters it's what you put your faith in that does and so you let jesus lead you to one of the humble rough hewn chairs you joined the throngs of people who came in the room before you they appear confident and happy fitting comfortably into the chairs they have been in for many many years they never wear out they never let them down they hold them firmly through all that they do no analogy is perfect of course our god is bigger than a chair but the truth is still applicable you can have the largest amount of belief ever that something unreliable will hold you up or the smallest amount of faith in the god of the universe and that grain of faith in the almighty god will make all the difference as you continue breathing deeply and slowly listen to the words of hebrews 11 from the new living translation faith shows the reality of what we hope for it is the evidence of things we cannot see through their faith the people in days of old earned a good reputation by faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at god's command that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen it was by faith that abel brought a more acceptable offering to god than cain did abel's offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man and god showed his approval of his gifts although abel is long dead he still speaks to us by his example of faith it was by faith that enoch was taken up to heaven without dying he disappeared because god took him for before he was taken up he was known as a person who pleased god and it is impossible to please god without faith anyone who wants to come to him must believe that god exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him it was by faith that noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood he obeyed god who warned him about things that had never happened before by his faith noah condemned the rest of the world and he received the righteousness that comes by faith it was by faith that abraham obeyed when god called him to leave home and go to another land that god would give him as his inheritance and even when he reached the land god promised him he lived there by faith for he was like a foreigner living in tents and so did isaac and jacob who inherited the same promise abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations a city designed and built by god it was by faith that even sarah was able to have a child though she was barren and was too old she believed that god would keep his promise and so a whole nation came from this one man who was as good as dead a nation with so many people that like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore there was no way to count them all these people died still believing what god had promised them they did not receive what was promised but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it they agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own if they had longed for the country they came from they could have gone back but they were looking for a better place a heavenly homeland that is why god is not ashamed to be called their god for he has prepared a city for them it was by faith that abraham offered isaac a sacrifice when god was testing him abraham who had received god's promises was ready to sacrifice his only son isaac even though god had told him isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted abraham reasoned that if isaac died god was able to bring him back to life again and in a sense abraham did receive his son back from the dead it was by faith that isaac promised blessings for the future to his sons jacob and esau it was by faith that jacob when he was old and dying blessed each of joseph's sons and bowed in worship as he leaned on his staff it was by faith that joseph when he was about to die said confidently that the people of israel would leave egypt he even commanded them to take his bones with them when they left it was by faith that moses parents hid him for three months when he was born they saw that god had given them an unusual child and they were not afraid to disobey the king's command it was by faith that moses when he grew up refused to be called the son of pharaoh's daughter he chose to share the oppression of god's people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin he thought it was better to suffer for the sake of christ than to own the treasures of egypt for he was looking ahead to his great reward it was by faith that moses left the land of egypt not fearing the king's anger he kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible it was by faith that moses commanded the people of israel to keep the passover and to sprinkle blood on the doorsteps so that the angel of death would not kill their firstborn sons it was by faith that the people of israel went through the red sea as though they were on dry ground but when the egyptians tried to follow they were all drowned it was by faith that the people of israel marched around jericho for seven days and the walls came crashing down it was by faith that rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey god for she had given a friendly welcome to the spies how much more do i need to say it would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of gideon barack sampson jephthah david samuel and all the prophets by faith these people overthrew kingdoms ruled with justice and received what god had promised them they shut the mouths of lions quenched the flames of fire and escaped death by the edge of the sword their weakness was turned to strength they became strong in battle and put the whole armies to flight women received their loved ones back again from death but others were tortured refusing to turn from god in order to be set free they placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection some were jeered at and their backs were cut open with whips others were chained in prisons some died by stoning some were sawed in half and others were killed with the sword some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats destitute and oppressed and mistreated they were too good for this world wandering over deserts and mountains hiding in caves and holes in the ground all of these people earned a good reputation because of their faith yet none of them received all that god had promised for god had something better in mind for us so that they would not reach perfection without us ordinary people serving an extraordinary god it's not the size of your faith that matters it's the one you put your faith in the one who created the world and holds it all together the one who loves you unconditionally let his holy spirit fill you with all the faith that you need to live a life pleasing to god because heaven awaits us we know there is something better coming and trusting god with today is just a foretaste of the faith that will be rewarded when we receive eternal life let me pray over you lord jesus shine the light of your love over your beloved child tonight let them bask in the glow of your glory as they sleep peacefully trusting in your watch care over them may their dreams be about you and the people who have embodied faith from the bible may they wake refreshed ready to trust you in the big and the small because you care about them both we love you and we worship you it's all because of jesus amen all anxiety can be released right now in the name of jesus jesus himself comforts us in these words from john chapter 14. do not let your hearts be troubled you believe in god believe also in me dear friend if you are troubled tonight please know you are not alone let's pray holy god in light of the uncertainty going on in the world right now we know that you have not left us to handle things on our own instead lord you remain on your throne as you always have and always will you are high and lifted up you are all seeing all-knowing and almighty god thank you father for being a constant presence in the midst of uncertainty thank you for never leaving us or forsaking us in you we find peace we will follow the words of your son jesus and believe that you can turn our troubled hearts into hearts of peace right here right now we release every bit of anxiety and tension caused by the unknowns we believe you are sovereign we believe you are in control and we believe you are on your throne in the mighty name of jesus we pray amen now take a deep breath in and release it slowly [Music] invite the holy spirit to be with you [Music] if you are able open your arms wide to receive the peace of his presence allow everything else to fade away pull the warm covers over you and rest your head softly on the pillow as we pray for trouble-free hearts and minds in christ jesus gracious god our keeper and friend thank you for standing watch over this child as they enter into a time of calm quiet and restful sleep as your spirit fills the room lord please fill their soul with serenity and peace of mind breathe in the presence of god breathe out the troubles of your heart in the lord there is perfect peace that exceeds all understanding allow his peace to surpass everything you are thinking in the lord there is unshakable hope a hope that goes beyond what we see feel or hear cling to that unwavering hope tonight in the lord there is comfort and joy embrace those things above the things of this world remain in the presence of god as you inhale and exhale allow your breathing to settle into a soft steady rhythm let all thoughts drift away as you think only of the spirit of the lord covering you with peace lord god in the quiet hours of the night i pray for your holiness to cover this beloved one with songs of joy and comfort i pray that you sing over them songs of deliverance the sound of your voice lord is what we long to hear above all voices opinions and perceptions we want to hear you thank you lord that we can open your word and freedom and find the answers we need i pray that this listener will seek you through your word and find the peace they desire bless them with quiet rest tonight in jesus name [Music] release all the tension you've been carrying for so many days now feel your shoulders relax and the rest of your body fully unwind let go of every concern of every troubled thought let go jesus calms us with his words do not let your hearts be troubled surrender your troubled heart to him release your worries like a child who lets go of her balloon and watches the wind carries it away higher and higher it goes until it is a mere dot in the sky so the lord carries our troubles far away until we see them no more gracious god i pray that your child will experience the immense freedom that is found as they let go of their burdens lord please carry their troubled thoughts far away replace those thoughts with remembrances of who you are that they might have an unshakable faith in an unmovable god you are holy you are just you are light love and hope thank you lord for who you are in the name of your son jesus amen jesus said i am the way and the truth and the life no one comes to the father except through me rest securely in jesus the way the truth and the life remain in the father through the lord jesus christ he is with you he loves you he will not forsake you father thank you for sending your son jesus he is the way the truth and the life what security this brings as we try to navigate this unknown season we'd need not worry or fear or forge our own path we need simply to walk in your way abide in your truth and live in your peace in jesus name amen as the scriptures remind us let us rejoice in the lord always i will say it again rejoice let your gentleness be evident to all the lord is near do not be anxious about anything but in every situation by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to god and the peace of god which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in christ jesus the lord is near breathe deeply in his presence do not be anxious about anything instead with a heart of thanksgiving offer your prayers and petitions to god please let me offer a petition to the lord on your behalf precious savior king of kings and lord of lords with the heart of thanksgiving i pray on behalf of this beloved child that they will find rest in your presence tonight lord jesus as you are in the father and the father is in you we are assured of your complete sovereignty please assure this listener that you are in control that you will work everything out according to your glory i ask that you keep this child in the fold of your peace through every moment of every season help them to know that you are still on the throne you are still doing mighty things and you will do even greater things in the days to come please lord come the heart mind and spirit of this person tonight that they will not be troubled but find peaceful rest in you amen in the comforting words of jesus we hear this faithful promise i will do whatever you ask in my name so that the father may be glorified in the son you may ask me for anything in my name and i will do it let the comforting words of jesus sink deeply into your spirit tonight this promise is for every believer who calls upon the name of the lord jesus christ that the father may be glorified in the son rest in the good pleasing and perfect will of the lord find peace in his name the name above every other name dear god i pray for a special blessing over this person tonight as they find quiet untroubled sleep during this uncertain time in your name i ask that you will be their shelter of peace their refuge of strength and their fortress of hope the focus of their unshakeable faith lord please wash over them like a waterfall cascading down the side of a beautiful mountain refreshing renewing life-giving water cleansing them from all anxious thoughts in jesus name amen jesus offered another promise to his disciples in john chapter 14 he said i will ask the father and he will give you another helper that he may abide with you forever the spirit of truth i will ask the father thank you god that we can come to you and ask of you thank you that the veil was torn so that we could enter the holy of holies enter into the blessed sanctuary of god's presence he will give you another helper the holy spirit our helper our guide through every season breathe in the spirit of truth tonight exhale all other thoughts about the holy spirit jesus also said you know him for he lives with you and will be in you the holy spirit lives with you he abides in you remain in him heavenly father thank you for sending a helper for us the spirit of truth and peace we welcome your presence here for when you are with us and live in us there is no room for anxiety the holiness of who you are shines so brightly in our lives there is no place for dark thoughts or shadows of concern thank you lord for being light and life in a dark world we trust you in you we find peace comfort and hope in jesus name amen finally jesus offered these words of great comfort all this i have spoken while still with you but the advocate the holy spirit whom the father will send in my name will teach you all things and will remind you of everything i have said to you peace i leave with you my peace i give you i do not give to you as the world gives do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid all this i have spoken while still with you be with us now lord jesus the holy spirit will remind you of everything i have said to you thank you lord for reminding us that you are still on the throne wash over us with truth and light filter out all the negative things and fill us to the full with your goodness and peace peace i leave with you my peace i give you god's peace is a gift a gift for us to open and embrace allow me to open the gift of god's peace over your life tonight heavenly father i receive your gift of peace the gift of your presence humbly i open your gift and share it with this beloved child tonight cover them with the blanket of your grace and mercy please continue to comfort them through the night watches draw them near and help them sleep deeply and contently in your name lord glorify your name and all the earth in every city country and continent let your name be known reveal yourself to the nations and open people's eyes to see that you are still on the throne i thank you lord for covering this faithful person tonight from head to toe you have covered them your presence is exactly what is needed in this time and place holy god as you continue to quiet this beloved child in love and peace please guard them as they sleep untroubled and unconcerned tonight help them to awaken refreshed and renewed with a deep sense of calm and peace a peace that surpasses all understanding i pray that their hearts will no longer be troubled that they will not be afraid because they have an unshakable faith in you it is in the trusted name of jesus i pray welcome to this abide bedtime story where you will be guided into a deep and peaceful sleep hearing words of peace and comfort from the bible i'm james seawood instead of your mind being filled with anxiety you will be encouraged to think about the things that are true and lovely honorable and pure excellent and worthy of praise let god speak to your heart as you hear his word so settle deeply into your bed let your head rest heavily on your pillow as you relax every muscle in your body take a deep slow breath hold it for a moment and then release it feeling the tension of your day fade away feel the comfort of your warm covers the peacefulness of this moment don't let in any distractions tell them to go away this is your time to be with the lord as he guides you into deep sleep without worry or concern keep breathing deeply and slowly as you listen letting your body ease into sleep father god i bring this child of yours before you today and ask you for your favor i already know that you love them deeply and i ask that you would give them that assurance as well i pray that as they sleep their dreams would be of those things that are honorable and lovely and worthy of praise keep away all distractions concerns and stresses so that they can rest peacefully may the sound of my voice telling them of the wonders of you and your world lull them quickly into sleep that lasts the whole night through and is refreshing and rejuvenating i ask these things knowing that your desire is for them to live abundantly in you it's in the name of jesus that i pray amen your purpose on this earth is to enjoy god and to serve him forever to dwell on his excellent greatness to fill your mind and heart with his word anything else you are given to do will be fueled by these things philippians chapter 4 verse 8 and the amplified bible says finally believers whatever is true whatever is honorable and worthy of respect whatever is right and confirmed by god's word whatever is pure and wholesome whatever is lovely and brings peace whatever is admirable and of good repute if there is any excellence if there is anything worthy of praise think continually on these things center your mind on them and implant them in your heart your time tonight will be spent letting your mind dwell on these things first here are some things that are true told by the scriptures romans chapter 8 verse 28 and we know that for those who love god all things work together for good for those who are called according to his purpose all things that's a promise god will work all things together for good first john chapter 1 verse 9 if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness faithful and just that's who god is if he says he will do something you can be sure that he will do it if you have confessed your sins you are cleansed from all unrighteousness john chapter 3 verse 16 for god so loved the world that he gave his only son that whoever believes in him should not perish would have eternal life oh beloved rest in that truth he loves you so much lord god your word is trustworthy let this precious child dwell on these things as they sleep tonight write them on their heart bind your truths to them so they live and breathe them day in and day out let them hear only words of truth your word is truth amen now let those things that are honorable dwell in your mind let's turn to the sermon on the mount from matthew chapter 5 to see behavior that is honorable to god jesus said you have heard that it was said an eye for an eye and a tooth for tooth but i say to you do not resist the one who is evil but if anyone slaps you on the right cheek turn to him the other also and if anyone would sue you and take your tunic let him have your cloak as well and if anyone forces you to go one mile go with him two miles give to the one who begs from you and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you you have heard that it was said you shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy but i say to you love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you so that you may be sons of your father who is in heaven for he makes his son rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust for if you love those who love you what reward do you have do not even the tax collectors do the same and if you greet only your brothers what more are you doing than others do not even the gentiles do the same let these honorable things dwell in your thoughts jesus you don't ask us to do anything that you don't then enable us to do so as this child of yours thinks about doing honorable things help them to know that they are not doing them alone in their own strength but by the power and might of your holy spirit dwelling within them and we will thank you and praise you for that power in your name amen let your mind dwell on that which is just deuteronomy chapter 10 verse 18 he executes justice for the fatherless and the widow and loves the sojourner giving him food and clothing and chapter 32 verse 4 of that same book the rock his work is perfect for all his ways are justice a god of faithfulness and without iniquity just and upright is he give justice to the weak and the fatherless maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute god is a god of justice it is in his very nature to be just let your mind dwell on these things lord god thank you for your justice that we can always know that you will do the right thing whether we see it today or years from today we can trust that you will follow through on your word help this child of yours tonight as they dwell on your justice give them hope and courage in the name of jesus amen think about those things that are pure psalm 12 verse 6 is a perfect place to start the words of the lord are pure words like silver refined in a furnace on the ground purified seven times let the words of god fill your dreams as you hear him speak to you his words are pure psalm 19 verse 8 the precepts of the lord are right rejoicing the heart the commandment of the lord is pure enlightening the eyes first timothy chapter 1 verse 5 the aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith when the temple of god was being built everything was to be made of those things that were pure there were to be no impurities in the temple now you are the temple of god the holy spirit dwells in you dwell on the lord and keep your heart pure holy lord there is nothing pure aside from you so i pray that his beloved child listening tonight will guard their heart from all impurities as they dwell on your word that is true just and pure thank you for promising them your strength in the name of jesus i pray amen here is what god considers lovely that you should dwell on it psalm 84 verse 1 how lovely is your dwelling place o lord of hosts isaiah chapter 52 verse 7 how lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news who announces peace and brings good news of happiness who announces salvation and says to zion your god reigns maybe you've thought about the fact that the feet of those who bring the news of jesus are lovely but they are dwell on those messengers on those who proclaim the messiah the savior of the world jesus you are the messiah you are the savior of the world and those who would speak about you to others are lovely to dwell on i pray that this precious one listening tonight will be one who has the lovely feet of a messenger of your gospel grant them peace as they dwell on the loveliness of your dwelling and the telling of the good news in your name amen in the new testament the early church fathers were directed to appoint people who had good reputations they were devoted to the lord and to their families they were ones who were worthy of being looked up to they would fulfill their duties in the church well proverbs 22 verse 1 says a good name is to be chosen rather than great riches and favor is better than silver or gold first timothy chapter 5 verses 9 through 10 describes a widow who could be given help by the church it says let a widow be enrolled if she is not less than 60 years of age having been the wife of one husband and having a reputation for good works if she has brought up children has shown hospitality has washed the feet of the saints has cared for the afflicted and has devoted herself to every good work let your mind dwell on what it's like to know a person such as this loves to serve others is hospitable cares for the afflicted let the peace such a person brings envelop your heart father we praise you for your gifts that allow us to serve others and to serve you i ask your blessing on this beloved child as they sleep tonight that you would bring to their mind that which is of good repute that they would dwell on that and not on those who do not honor you it's all for the sake of jesus amen here is what is excellent and should fill your thoughts psalm 150 verse 2 praise him for his mighty deeds praise him according to his excellent greatness titus chapter 3 verse 8 the saying is trustworthy and i want you to insist on these things so that those who have believed in god may be careful to devote themselves to good works these things are excellent and profitable for people hebrews chapter 8 verse 6 but as it is christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better since it is enacted on better promises excellent greatness excellent works a more excellent covenant think upon these things dear heavenly father there is so much excellence in your name and your character and your mighty works help this loved one tonight to dwell on the excellent greatness of your name and the excellent ministry of our lord jesus as they rest in you tonight it's in the matchless name of jesus that we pray amen and now we will close with the words of revelation chapter 5 verse 11 through 13 which tells us why the lord jesus above all else is worthy of praise then i looked and i heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands saying with a loud voice worthy is the lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing and i heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea and all that is in them saying to him who sits on the throne and to the lamb be blessing and honor in glory and might forever and ever amen and amen sleep in peace dear one dwelling on the things of god tonight our sleep story is about god's passionate promise our story reveals how god pours out his spirit upon all his people you will hear the comforting message from god's word but before we begin get comfortable breathe deeply [Music] inhale god's peace as you relax you feel god's amazing love for you as you sink into your mattress your breath becomes deliberate relaxed your muscles go from being tight to soft like cotton close your eyes imagine god's holy light washing over you picture yourself giving him all of your burdens your thoughts and concerns breathe in his hope exhale is love the bible says that god will pour out his spirit upon all people that sons and daughters will prophesy and young men will see visions old men will dream dreams with that join me as we explore this passionate promise god has given us when you receive christ into your life his spirit lives inside you however that is just the beginning god longs for you to understand the depth of what this means to experience his power to move in the miraculous to extend his grace and to shine his light into the world ask god to open the eyes of your heart let his light flood you with truth feel his heavenly touch his love filling every part of your being as you do this breathe deeply inhale is love exhale your burdens and cares keep breathing slowly and steadily as you listen to my voice and feel the presence of the lord with you embrace the stillness around you listen for god in the silence experience the rest you have longed for [Music] dear heavenly father i am ready for more of you i am grateful for every prayer you have answered every blessing you have bestowed on me the very life you have given me i also know there is so much more for me to learn so much more of you to experience the bible says that your people perish for a lack of wisdom make me wise god make me more like you forgive me of my sins show me where i am missing the mark i want to be everything you created me to be so that i can one day hear well done my good and faithful servant help me to fully grasp what your promises are to me i love you i trust you deepen my trust as you deepen my sleep tonight in jesus name i pray amen your eyes are closed your head rests gently on your pillow you continue breathing deeply and slowly relaxing the sound of the wind blowing eases your soul you think about the dreams and visions that god has promised to give to his people you long for that you ask god to show you himself in your dreams you ask god to show you himself in your dreams i'm so glad you asked for that says a far away voice come you look around wondering who is talking to you no one is there but feel a presence a warm glow growing inside you you step outside and begin to walk slowly down a path on one side glimmers of sunlight shine upon a river flowing with crystal blue water tall trees full of life and bearing fruit you've never seen decorate the bank brightly colored flowers of purple red orange and pink burst through the ground the other side of the path is full of flowers and trees as well but there is no fruit on the trees the flowers are wilted the colors fading some are tangled in weeds the river is stagnant you come to a fork in the path and pause you listen for the voice that beckoned you out of bed but there is only silence i'm still here you look up and even though you don't see anyone you realize this is the voice of god i pour out my spirit on everyone but not everyone recognizes me the two sides of the path are examples of what happens when you believe in me and when you try and do things on your own when you spend time with me listen to my words pay attention to the signs wonders dreams and visions i send you every day you will survive every storm life brings every day you will get stronger when you share my love with others you will experience miracles you will do great and mighty things in my name guide motions to the other side of the path when you do things the world's way you don't follow in my footsteps and listen for my voice life is harder you don't have the peace i promised i created you to soar on wings like eagles i am always blessing my people with signs wonders visions and dreams but some are too busy to listen others have let their hearts become hardened some people have an idea of me but that idea is only a part of me they like to keep me in a box they dismiss the supernatural power the very nature of me therefore when the rain comes and the storms of life hit they aren't able to experience the fullness of me within them it is my deepest desire that all of my people experience the fullness of me i send them just like i am sending you tonight dreams visions signs and wonders to stir their spirit i want to renew your heart and revive your soul i want you to walk in victory and in power this is my will my purpose and my plan for you you hold on to god's voice it leads you over a steep hill mist fills the foggy air you pause to wipe the dew from your eyes you hear the laughter of children you take one more step up and stand still in awe majestic mountains surround you people of all ages colors and nationalities dive into breathtaking turquoise water their smiles exceed their faces it's as if they are diving into life they throw their heads back laughing and rejoicing in gloriously there is a white beach the sun shines brilliantly the sand feels like silk children sit at a small white picnic table while adults read with them they're shaded by enormous trees draped with spanish moss that looks like tinsel hung on a christmas tree you reach down and dip your hand into the water instinctively you pull your hand back the water is electric powerful it feels like love are you in heaven you've never felt like this before love penetrates through the air it radiates from the heart of every person you feel it in the water you want to stay here longer but like a soft breeze you feel yourself drifting away [Music] you now find yourself in a forest full of tall thick trees there is very little light you're on a path but sometimes that path is hard to see you squint trying to see through the darkness you smell the sharp scent of decomposing leaves the wetness of a recent rain the gravel path under your feet seems firm enough but not being able to see concerns you you take a timid step forward when you find your feet still firmly on the path you take another step then you feel the presence of the lord beside you taking your hand gripping it firmly yet gently you can trust me he says i will not let you go i know the way perfectly i will walk with you through this darkness i will walk with you through this darkness your heart is calmed your breathing slows you begin to notice the light filtering through the swaying branches the birds calling to each other through the leaves the small yellow flower poking its way through the thick underbrush god is showing you beauty where you thought there was just darkness his presence has shown the light on this dark path you are filled with peace once again you are swept away to a green lush valley the sun shines brightly there is a small stream running swiftly through the center of the valley bubbling crisply over small stones it's idyllic brown gray black and tan horses graze peacefully there are no signs of fear in them you breathe in the scent of warm grass feeling the softness under your feet you sit and wait for something and then beside you is the lord his eyes soft and kind i lead you beside streams of water i provide everything that you need he says bright red birds race by fluttering and chittering happy the birds of the field don't worry about what they will wear or what they will eat they have everything they need he turns and looks at you and the kindness and love that you see in his eyes bring tears to yours my beloved child you have everything that you need too and the next moment you find yourself back in your soft warm bed in your room in your home safe surrounded by peace i pour out my spirit on people says the soft voice from above i bless them with dreams and visions so that they may know my love my power so they will remember my desires for them while on this earth and to remind them that there is so much more to come will you share the dream i've blessed you with tonight the sound of your own voice crying yes yes fills you for a second you wonder where you are you must have been dreaming but it felt so real it was real whispers god i made a passionate promise to you when i said ask and it will be given to you seek and you will find knock and the door will be opened for you you asked me to show you what it was like to experience more of me and i answered now it is up to you to believe you're still for a second longer lingering in god's presence basking in his love dear heavenly father help this dear one sleep peacefully tonight may you bring sweet comfort thank you for revealing yourself in our dreams may the silence of the night bring revelation and clarity of thought rising in the morning refreshed rested thank you for your word your passionate promises they are a love letter to me and i am forever grateful help me be open to all of your ways god align my will with yours help me shine your light into the world in jesus name i pray amen i hope you enjoyed this abide bedtime story we look forward to spending time with you again tomorrow until then may you abide in christ tonight's meditation a faith-filled life is written to usher you into deep restful sleep as you dwell on the life of faith into which you have been called by god the book of hebrews chapter 11 is filled with stories of people who have lived lives of faith it tells of the things they trusted god for even when they could not see a way through themselves that same faith in that same faithful good god is available to you all you need to do is grasp it and then rest in it so as we begin settle into your bed and take a slow deep breath feel your heart rate begin to slow relax your neck muscles and your shoulders clench and unclench your fists keep breathing slowly and deeply then as you exhale release the worries and burdens that you have carried with you today now is the time to let god renew your strength let me pray for you dear faithful father i thank you for your care for each one of us as your precious child sinks into deep sleep tonight cover them in the assurance of your love and your presence if they wake during the night let your whispers of love cause them to drift quickly back to sleep remind them that you are always with them and that you will never leave them let them be confident in their faith no matter how small because you are big even a mustard seed of faith can do great things because that faith is in you hold them closely in your arms tonight lord for they are your precious child it's in your holy name that i pray amen imagine walking into a room where there are hundreds of people all sitting on chairs they're laughing and talking some are even singing a song of praise to god there are lots of chairs still left they are humble looking chairs but obviously comfortable as they are very much like the ones everyone else is sitting in there are slight differences maybe in the shade of the wood or the height of the legs but they are all fundamentally the same they are sound they are reliable they can be trusted to hold up the ones sitting in them as you look around wondering what chair you should choose you notice some really elaborate looking chairs some look like thrones they are softly cushioned and decorated all over with glittering gold and gemstones your eyes are glued to them that's the kind of chair you want it's very flashy it must be very comfortable in fact you're pretty sure you've heard about others who have sat in this kind of chair you're sure it's the kind of chair that will hold you firmly for years to come something you can really trust and so you head to one it's actually up on a high dice so you have to climb some steps to get to it once you climb the steps and boy there were more than you initially noticed you have to input a code into a keypad on a gate that surrounds the chair you hadn't really noticed that gate before it takes you a while to figure out what the code is nobody has told you the secret but man you really want to sit in that chair finally you figure it out and the gate opens then you notice that you have to carefully walk over some stepping stones crossing a turbulent river to actually reach the dice it didn't look this hard from down below but you're determined to get there so you carefully tread across the stones finally you reach the chair you sit anticipating the comfort of the seat but to your utter dismay it completely collapses dumping you on the ground chagrined you look up to see jesus standing before you and reaching for your hand with a smile on his face when you reach out to take his hand you understand the grandeur of what you put your faith in didn't matter the fanciest chair won't hold you if it's not strong it's not the amount of faith you have that matters it's what you put your faith in that does and so you let jesus lead you to one of the humble rough-hewn chairs you joined the throngs of people who came in the room before you they appear confident and happy fitting comfortably into the chairs they have been in for many many years they never wear out they never let them down they hold them firmly through all that they do no analogy is perfect of course our god is bigger than a chair but the truth is still applicable you can have the largest amount of belief ever that something unreliable will hold you up or the smallest amount of faith in the god of the universe and that grain of faith in the almighty god will make all the difference as you continue breathing deeply and slowly listen to the words of hebrews 11 from the new living translation faith shows the reality of what we hope for it is the evidence of things we cannot see through their faith the people in days of old earned a good reputation by faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at god's command that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen it was by faith that abel brought a more acceptable offering to god than cain did abel's offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man and god showed his approval of his gifts although abel is long dead he still speaks to us by his example of faith it was by faith that enoch was taken up to heaven without dying he disappeared because god took him for before he was taken up he was known as a person who pleased god and it is impossible to please god without faith anyone who wants to come to him must believe that god exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him it was by faith that noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood he obeyed god who warned him about things that had never happened before by his faith noah condemned the rest of the world and he received the righteousness that comes by faith it was by faith that abraham obeyed when god called him to leave home and go to another land that god would give him as his inheritance and even when he reached the land god promised him he lived there by faith for he was like a foreigner living in tents and so did isaac and jacob who inherited the same promise abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations a city designed and built by god it was by faith that even sarah was able to have a child though she was baring and was too old she believed that god would keep his promise and so a whole nation came from this one man who was as good as dead a nation with so many people that like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore there is no way to count them all these people died still believing what god had promised them they did not receive what was promised but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it they agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own if they had longed for the country they came from they could have gone back but they were looking for a better place a heavenly homeland that is why god is not ashamed to be called their god for he has prepared a city for them it was by faith that abraham offered isaac a sacrifice when god was testing him abraham who had received god's promises was ready to sacrifice his only son isaac even though god had told him isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted abraham reasoned that if isaac died god was able to bring him back to life again and in a sense abraham did receive his son back from the dead it was by faith that isaac promised blessings for the future to his sons jacob and esau it was by faith that jacob when he was old and dying blessed each of joseph's sons and bowed in worship as he leaned on his staff [Music] it was by faith that joseph when he was about to die said confidently that the people of israel would leave egypt he even commanded them to take his bones with them when they left it was by faith that moses parents hid him for three months when he was born they saw that god had given them an unusual child and they were not afraid to disobey the king's command it was by faith that moses when he grew up refused to be called the son of pharaoh's daughter he chose to share the oppression of god's people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin he thought it was better to suffer for the sake of christ than to own the treasures of egypt for he was looking ahead to his great reward it was by faith that moses left the land of egypt not fearing the king's anger he kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible it was by faith that moses commanded the people of israel to keep the passover and to sprinkle blood on the doorsteps so that the angel of death would not kill their firstborn sons it was by faith that the people of israel went through the red sea as though they were on dry ground but when the egyptians tried to follow they were all drowned it was by faith that the people of israel marched around jericho for seven days and the walls came crashing down it was by faith that rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey god for she had given a friendly welcome to the spies how much more do i need to say it would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of gideon barack samson jephthah david samuel and all the prophets by faith these people overthrew kingdoms ruled with justice and received what god had promised them they shut the mouths of lions quenched the flames of fire and escaped death by the edge of the sword their weakness was turned to strength they became strong in battle and put the whole armies to flight women received their loved ones back again from death but others were tortured refusing to turn from god in order to be set free they placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection some were jeered at and their backs were cut open with whips others were chained in prisons some died by stoning some were sawed in half and others were killed with the sword some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats destitute and oppressed and mistreated they were too good for this world wandering over deserts and mountains hiding in caves and holes in the ground all of these people earned a good reputation because of their faith yet none of them received all that god had promised for god had something better in mind for us so that they would not reach perfection without us ordinary people serving an extraordinary god it's not the size of your faith that matters it's the one you put your faith in the one who created the world and holds it all together the one who loves you unconditionally let his holy spirit fill you with all the faith that you need to live a life pleasing to god because heaven awaits us we know there is something better coming and trusting god with today is just a foretaste of the faith that will be rewarded when we receive eternal life let me pray over you lord jesus shine the light of your love over your beloved child tonight let them bask in the glow of your glory as they sleep peacefully trusting in your watch care over them may their dreams be about you and the people who have embodied faith from the bible may they wake refreshed ready to trust you in the big and the small because you care about them both we love you and we worship you it's all because of jesus amen all anxiety can be released right now in the name of jesus jesus himself comforts us in these words from john chapter 14. do not let your hearts be troubled you believe in god believe also in me dear friend if you are in trouble tonight please know you are not alone let's pray holy god in light of the uncertainty going on in the world right now we know that you have not left us to handle things on our own instead lord you remain on your throne as you always have and always will you are high and lifted up you are all seeing all-knowing and almighty god thank you father for being a constant presence in the midst of uncertainty thank you for never leaving us or forsaking us in you we find peace we will follow the words of your son jesus and believe that you can turn our troubled hearts into hearts of peace right here right now we release every bit of anxiety and tension caused by the unknowns we believe you are sovereign we believe you are in control and we believe you are on your throne in the mighty name of jesus we pray amen now take a deep breath in and release it slowly invite the holy spirit to be with you if you are able open your arms wide to receive the peace of his presence allow everything else to fade away pull the warm covers over you and rest your head softly on the pillow as we pray for trouble-free hearts and minds in christ jesus gracious god our keeper and friend thank you for standing watch over this child as they enter into a time of calm quiet and restful sleep as your spirit fills the room lord please fill their soul with serenity and peace of mind breathe in the presence of god breathe out the troubles of your heart in the lord there is perfect peace that exceeds all understanding allow his peace to surpass everything you are thinking in the lord there is unshakable hope a hope that goes beyond what we see feel or hear cling to that unwavering hope tonight in the lord there is comfort and joy embrace those things above the things of this world remain in the presence of god as you inhale and exhale allow your breathing to settle into a soft steady rhythm let all thoughts drift away as you think only of the spirit of the lord covering you with peace lord god in the quiet hours of the night i pray for your holiness to cover this beloved one with songs of joy and comfort i pray that you sing over them songs of deliverance the sound of your voice lord is what we long to hear above all voices opinions and perceptions we want to hear you thank you lord that we can open your word in freedom and find the answers we need i pray that this listener will seek you through your word and find the peace they desire bless them with quiet rest tonight in jesus name release all the tension you've been carrying for so many days now feel your shoulders relax and the rest of your body fully unwind let go of every concern of every troubled thought let go jesus calms us with his words do not let your hearts be troubled surrender your troubled heart to him release your worries like a child who lets go of her balloon and watches the wind carries it away higher and higher it goes until it is a mere dot in the sky so the lord carries our troubles far away until we see them no more gracious god i pray that your child will experience the immense freedom that is found as they let go of their burdens lord please carry their troubled thoughts far away replace those thoughts with remembrances of who you are that they might have an unshakable faith in an unmovable god you are holy you are just you are light love and hope thank you lord for who you are in the name of your son jesus amen jesus said i am the way and the truth and the life no one comes to the father except through me rest securely in jesus the way the truth and the life remain in the father through the lord jesus christ he is with you he loves you he will not forsake you father thank you for sending your son jesus he is the way the truth and the life what security this brings as we try to navigate this unknown season we need not worry or fear or forge our own path we need simply to walk in your way abide in your truth and live in your peace in jesus name amen as the scriptures remind us let us rejoice in the lord always i will say it again rejoice let your gentleness be evident to all the lord is near do not be anxious about anything but in every situation by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to god and the peace of god which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in christ jesus the lord is near breathed deeply in his presence do not be anxious about anything instead with a heart of thanksgiving offer your prayers and petitions to god please let me offer a petition to the lord on your behalf precious savior king of kings and lord of lords with the heart of thanksgiving i pray on behalf of this beloved child that they will find rest in your presence tonight lord jesus as you are in the father and the father is in you we are assured of your complete sovereignty please assure this listener that you are in control that you will work everything out according to your glory i ask that you keep this child in the fold of your peace through every moment of every season help them to know that you are still on the throne you are still doing mighty things and you will do even greater things in the days to come please lord come the heart mind and spirit of this person tonight that they will not be troubled but find peaceful rest in you amen in the comforting words of jesus we hear this faithful promise i will do whatever you ask in my name so that the father may be glorified in the sun you may ask me for anything in my name and i will do it let the comforting words of jesus sink deeply into your spirit tonight this promise is for every believer who calls upon the name of the lord jesus christ that the father may be glorified in the sun rest in the good pleasing and perfect will of the lord find peace in his name the name above every other name dear god i pray for a special blessing over this person tonight as they find quiet untroubled sleep during this uncertain time in your name i ask that you will be their shelter of peace their refuge of strength and their fortress of hope the focus of their unshakeable faith lord please wash over them like a waterfall cascading down the side of a beautiful mountain refreshing renewing life-giving water cleansing them from all anxious thoughts in jesus name amen jesus offered another promise to his disciples in john chapter 14 he said i will ask the father and he will give you another helper that he may abide with you forever the spirit of truth i will ask the father thank you god that we can come to you and ask of you thank you that the veil was torn so that we could enter the holy of holies enter into the blessed sanctuary of god's presence he will give you another helper the holy spirit our helper our guide through every season breathe in the spirit of truth tonight exhale all other thoughts about the holy spirit jesus also said you know him for he lives with you and will be in you the holy spirit lives with you he abides in you remain in him heavenly father thank you for sending a helper for us the spirit of truth and peace we welcome your presence here for when you are with us and live in us there is no room for anxiety the holiness of who you are shines so brightly in our lives there is no place for dark thoughts or shadows of concern thank you lord for being light and life in a dark world we trust you in you we find peace comfort and hope in jesus name amen finally jesus offered these words of great comfort all this i have spoken while still with you but the advocate the holy spirit whom the father will send in my name will teach you all things and will remind you of everything i have said to you peace i leave with you my peace i give you i do not give to you as the world gives do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid all this i have spoken while still with you be with us now lord jesus the holy spirit will remind you of everything i have said to you thank you lord for reminding us that you are still on the throne wash over us with truth and light filter out all the negative things and fill us to the full with your goodness and peace peace i leave with you my peace i give you god's peace is a gift a gift for us to open and embrace allow me to open the gift of god's peace over your life tonight heavenly father i receive your gift of peace the gift of your presence humbly i open your gift and share it with this beloved child tonight cover them with the blanket of your grace and mercy please continue to comfort them through the night watches draw them near and help them sleep deeply and contently in your name lord glorify your name and all the earth in every city country and continent let your name be known reveal yourself to the nations and open people's eyes to see that you are still on the throne i thank you lord for covering this faithful person tonight from head to toe you have covered them your presence is exactly what is needed in this time and place holy god as you continue to quiet this beloved child in love and peace please guard them as they sleep untroubled and unconcerned tonight help them to awaken refreshed and renewed with a deep sense of calm and peace a peace that surpasses all understanding i pray that their hearts will no longer be troubled that they will not be afraid because they have an unshakable faith in you it is in the trusted name of jesus i pray amen i feel like when i listen to the sleep meditations that i have a friend next to me [Music] you

Channel: Abide - Sleep Meditations

Views: 192,368

Rating: 4.7912755 out of 5

Keywords: guided meditation fear, guided meditation anxiety, guided meditation worries, anxiety meditation, release fear, let go of fear, let go of anxiety, harmony meditation, inner peace meditation, healing meditation, guided meditation healing, guided meditation inner peace, guided meditation emotional healing, anxiety guided meditation, Guided Christian meditation, Guided Bible meditation, Christian fear not, Christian overcome, Christian peace meditation, Bible comfort meditate

Id: zwj9AlJ6QWg

Length: 200min 17sec (12017 seconds)

Published: Thu Sep 16 2021