Author David Murray says, “Show me your sleep pattern, and I’ll show you your theology.” I like that. I grew up reciting, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, the Maker of heaven and earth.” But the real test of your faith might not be what you confess on Sunday morning. It might just be the time you went to bed on Saturday night.

In the beginning, “God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27). The triple use of “created” reminds us of something crucial—God set the rules for our bodies. Just like tanks weren’t created to float, our bodies weren’t created to thrive on little sleep and lots of coffee. Break the rules at your own risk. Keep them for great reward.

The older I get, the more I have come to appreciate my Creator. He made me human, with boundaries, limits, and a certain capacity for work. I’m not God. Therefore, I need to sleep. Therefore, every time I put my phone down and get the quantity time I need, I am confessing my faith. 

The same is true for you. Thankfully, you are not alone. The Holy Spirit, even right now, is opening your eyes to the truth of God and his created order. Even now, Jesus is with you, erasing any shame you might feel for past sins that you cannot change. Even now, your Father is ready to continue his third-shift work so that you can close your eyes and rest. So sleep well, child of God. That’s what faith does!