I go through spells where I don’t sleep well (hormones, anyone?). More than once, I complained to my mom about it. I’m sure I’ve mentioned this before, but my mom was a prayer warrior. After a few times of simply sympathizing with me, she suggested I take advantage of those awake hours to pray. She said, “Maybe God’s giving you some quiet time to talk to Him.” Her advice changed my view of a wakeful night.

There is something special about being with Him in the quiet of the night. No distractions (unless a cat is also awake *ahem*), just a blanket of deepest gray enveloping me in a cocoon of togetherness with the One who never slumbers nor sleeps. When I’m not sure how or for whom to pray, I can simply utter His name, sing hymns in my head, or remember scripture. Remembering Him in the night makes me more inclined to remain close to Him during the daylight hours, too. When I remember Him, I also remember His instruction, which definitely makes it more likely I will remain in obedience. The next time you have a sleepless night, talk to Him. The hours won’t be wasted.