The Book of Psalms repeatedly portrays prayer during the night watches.

“My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word.” (Psalm 119:148)

This portrayal calms me as I grow older and sleep often avoids me. Many prophets, intercessors, and prayer warriors rise early or stay up late to seek God’s revelation. 

In biblical tradition, the night was divided into four watches: First watch: 6–9 p.m.; Second watch: 9 p.m.–12 a.m.; Third watch: 12–3 a.m.; Fourth watch: 3–6 a.m.

“In the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea.” (Matthew 14:25)

The world is quiet and there are few demands on our life in the night. The fourth watch came to be associated with hope arriving while darkness still lingered. Although we may desire sleep, when there is less distraction of the world, it becomes a perfect haven for prayer.  I often wait for the light of dawn while awake during the “fourth watch.” Christians throughout history have associated nighttime prayer with watchfulness and readiness.  

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Acts 15:25

The night watches remind us that God never sleeps nor slumbers (Psalm 121:4).  If you feel like you have trouble sleeping, know God keeps the light on for you. 

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father,  You know the cares that wake us at night, so I entrust them back into Your caring hands. You know, and You see, and You will provide. Protect us, Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake, we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in His peace. Amen