Reflections 1/20/2020: When I first saw this picture it seemed a bit too schmaltzy for my tastes. Corny to the max. Then I began thinking about the tumult of the past 6 months in my life. “Sleep” was riddled with anger and worry as I tried to process the conflict through the lens of my own understanding. Even got up and paced the floor at odd hours of the night. Only when I responded to Your tap on my shoulder with a reminder of Your promises of being in control of the situation could I relax enough to fall into the blessed arms of sleep.  “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) I had to relinquish my own “spin-my-wheels-going-nowhere” understanding and determination to solve the problem on my own to access this offer of peace. Your Presence and Promises ARE the best sleep aid available! “In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety.” (Psalms 4:8) Having just survived a 30 minute sales pitch (at the Stock Show… much to Ed’s dismay!) on the importance of a quality mattress, I have a new appreciation of my sleep number, elevation options and layers of foam vs. springs on my sleeping surface! None of which will make a “hill ‘a beans” difference if my brain isn’t surrendered to You, God!