Sleeping Too Much According to the Bible
It is important to get enough sleep every night, though there is no definitive answer for how much sleep people need to be healthy. Many people in the modern world, however, struggle with sleeping too much. So what does the Bible say about sleeping too much?
Against Sleeping Too Much
The Bible has several passages about avoiding the temptation of sleeping too much and staying productive. Proverbs 6:9-11 reads, “How long will you sleep, you sluggard? When will you wake up? A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest – then poverty will pounce on you like a Bandit; scarcity will attack you like an Armed Man.” This passage speaks to both the physical and spiritual consequences of sleeping too much.
The Benefits of Moderation
Although there are passages that speak out against sleeping too much, the Bible also speaks of the benefits of moderation. Ecclesiastes 5:12 reads, “Sweet is the sleep of a laborer, whether they eat little or much, but the full stomach of the rich will not let them sleep.” This passage speaks of the fact that sometimes after a day of labor, it is natural and beneficial for a person to rest and sleep. It also speaks of the importance of moderation in all things – even sleep.
What the Bible Teaches Us
The Bible teaches us that sleeping too much can become an obstacle to productivity and can lead to physical and spiritual consequences. On the other hand, the Bible also teaches us that finding the right balance between rest and productivity is important for a person’s physical and spiritual health. Here are some tips for finding that balance:
- Get enough rest: Make sure to get the adequate amount of rest each night to stay healthy.
- Set a bedtime: Establish a regular bedtime and try to stick to it.
- Avoid oversleeping: When you’re tempted to sleep in, set an alarm to remind yourself to get up and get moving.
The Bible teaches us the importance of moderation and encourages us to be productive and take care of ourselves. Finding a balance between rest and productivity can help us to be healthy and stay on the path God has set for our lives.