Bible Study Psalm 4:8 - In Peace I Will Lie Down: Habits of Lying Down

Bible Study - In Peace I Will Lie Down: Habits of Lying Down

Introduction (10 minutes)

Icebreaker: Larry eagerly anticipates his fishing trip with friends tomorrow and wants to be well-rested. He sets a strict bedtime of 8:30pm, determined to get a good night's sleep. However, as he lies in bed, his mind races with thoughts about the upcoming day. Each time he glances at the bright numbers on his digital clock, he becomes more anxious and stressed about falling asleep. The constant checking only serves to keep him awake, and he can feel his brain becoming more alert with each passing minute. Larry realizes that he has fallen into the trap of clock-watching - a vicious cycle that prevents him from reaching the relaxed state necessary for sleep. This behavior also adds to his pressure and stress, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy of poor sleep performance. It seems like tonight will be another sleepless night for poor Larry. Have you ever experienced this struggle with clock-watching?

• Welcome and opening prayer.
• Briefly introduce Psalm 4:8 and its significance in finding peace and safety in God.

Section One: In Peace (30 minutes)

I. In Peace with God (10 minutes)

• Read Psalm 4:8 together: "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety."
• Discuss the importance of being in peace with God before going to sleep.
• Bible Meditation: Read and meditate on Psalm 23:1-3, emphasizing God's role as our shepherd who provides peace.
• Night Time Prayers: Encourage participants to engage in short prayers, expressing gratitude and seeking forgiveness for any sins or worries.

II. In Peace with Yourself (10 minutes)

• Discuss the significance of being at peace with oneself for a restful sleep.
• Nightly Habits of Self-Forgiveness: Share the importance of forgiving oneself for past mistakes. Read and reflect on Romans 8:1, which says, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
• Surrender to God's Plan: Explore the idea of surrendering one's life to God's plan. Read and reflect on Proverbs 3:5-6, emphasizing trust in God's guidance: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

III. In Peace with Others (10 minutes)

• Explain the importance of reconciling with others before bedtime.
• List Hurts to Bring to the Father: Encourage participants to write down any grievances or hurts they may have, expressing a willingness to surrender them to God. Read and reflect on Matthew 6:14-15: "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."
• Addressing Hurt Caused: Encourage participants to reflect on any hurt they may have caused to others and make a commitment to address it in the new day. Read and reflect on Matthew 5:23-24: "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift."

Section Two: Sleep Routine Habits (30 minutes)

I. Establishing a Nightly Routine (10 minutes)

• Discuss the importance of consistent bedtime routines.
• Share practical tips for creating a peaceful sleep environment (e.g., dimming lights, calming music).
• Encourage participants to set aside dedicated time for the next two sections as part of their nightly routine.

II. In Peace with God Routine (10 minutes)

• Provide a guided meditation or prayer session using Psalm 4:8 and Psalm 23:1-3.
• Encourage participants to personalize their prayers, seeking God's peace and protection.

III. In Peace with Yourself Routine (10 minutes)

• Guide participants through a self-forgiveness exercise, allowing them to release guilt and find peace in God's forgiveness.
• Lead a surrendering prayer based on Proverbs 3:5-6.

IV. In Peace with Others Routine (10 minutes)

• Facilitate a reflection session where participants can write down any hurts they want to surrender to God and any plans for addressing hurt they have caused.
• Conclude with a group prayer, asking God for guidance in reconciling with others.

Conclusion (10 minutes)

• Summarize the key takeaways from the study.
• Encourage participants to implement these habits in their nightly routines.
• Offer a closing prayer for peaceful and restful sleep.

Closing Prayer (5 minutes)

• Thank God for His guidance and the opportunity to study His word together.
• Ask for His blessing and protection as participants go to sleep.
• Amen.