Why Do I Fall Asleep When I Pray?

When I was first learning to talk to God, I noticed I dozed off a lot during prayer time. I’d get still and try to listen for his voice and then nod off. It really annoyed me, actually. I felt like I was doing something wrong, often wondering, “Why do I fall asleep when I pray??!”

the gift of rest

And then I read a life-changing book by Ruth Haylee Barton called “An Invitation to Silence and Solitude.” The chapter called “Dangerously Tired” addressed the issue of falling asleep when we try to pray.

My copy is packed away in a box right now or I’d quote you something from it. But what I remember most was a radical and gracious idea that God cares about our rest. And if we come to God and get so still and quieted and peaceful that we fall asleep—that’s a gift from God.

Religion vs. Relationship

At the time, I was pretty focused on what I could do for God (or what He could do for me.) And my idea of prayer was more like a board meeting or military briefing and less like building a relationship with my Father and Creator.

resting in God’s presence

You see, God knows we need naps and sleep and rest. God remembers our frame and that we are made from just dust  (Psalm 103:14). We are the ones who often put superhuman expectations on ourselves. The Lord is kind and good and knows what we need. Sometimes, we don’t need a big conversation. We don’t always need to know what we should do next, giving or receiving a to-do list from the Lord.

Often, we just need to soak in His quiet presence. Just to be near the Father. And like a toddler who had a huge day at the park, we fall asleep with our head on His shoulder. As we nap, He carries us. The God who never sleeps can be trusted to care for the concerns of the day while we rest our weary bodies and souls.

sleep and bread

Yes, of course, there’s a time to run and sprint in the power and strength of Elijah. But let’s not forget. First, he took two naps before running that marathon in body and spirit! I often think of Elijah and how God sent him angels to bake him warm bread, how he fell asleep for a nap, woke up and ate more bread and took another nap. And only then could he carry on his arduous journey.

A nap. Physical rest. Emotional strength.

Fresh bread. Nourishment. Comfort. Sustenance.

So when we come to God intending to pray or read God’s Word, don’t beat yourself up if you fall asleep. Receive this rest as a gift of comfort, nourishment, and peace. Receive it as the Lord knowing and meeting your deepest needs.

He meets us even in dreams, doesn’t He?

red flags

And maybe, if this is a routine habit, it’s a sign you’re on chronic overdrive like I was. Take note of signs of chronic exhaustion and receive this as a kindly gently waving red flag to slow your life down.

Create more white space in your schedule. Prioritize rest.

When our bodies are stuck with the foot on the gas pedal, the root could be trauma or an orphan spirit, keeping your in chronic fight or flight. We weren’t designed to live in this state chronically.

If that sounds like something you can relate to, listen to your body. Seek out healing from the trauma. Cut overextending activities out of your life until you can find True Rest for your soul.

If you’ve got a workaholic addiction and find yourself chronically dangerously tired, commit that to the Lord. Seek out inner healing. Ask Him to show you what’s at the root of it.

There is deliverance and peace and restful lifestyle available for you. If I’ve been set free of it, you can too!