10 Christian Hymns for Restful Sleep - Songs for Sleepless Nights, Anxiety, and Stress

This hymn has long been a go-to for comfort, whether in times of grief or worship. It’s especially fitting when you’re walking through a hardship and need to be reminded of the Lord’s presence. I especially love how the lyrics serve as an invitation for His nearness to draw close.

It was written by Henry Francis Lyte, a Scottish Anglican who was well familiar with the hardships of life. He composed it in 1847 while dying of tuberculosis—which must be what gives the lyrics such depth and tenderness. Even as his body was failing, he clung to the nearness of God.

This song encourages us to lift our eyes away from what we see around us—the chaos, the pain—and fix them on the unseen and eternal. This is exactly what we are instructed to do in 2 Corinthians 4:18: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 

When you’re winding down at night and trying to quiet your mind, this can be the perfect way to shift your focus. The melody is calming, and the lyrics invite you to rest in God’s peace—even in the midst of struggle.

This hymn reminds me of the Psalms, as it doesn’t attempt to shy away from the harsh realities of life, and yet it invites us to recenter our gaze back onto the Lord. I believe that’s what makes it so powerful. It reminds us that, no matter what we’re facing, our eternal peace is rooted in Jesus. This is one of the gifts He came to bring us through His sacrifice. Just like He said in John 16:33: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Listening to this song as you drift off to sleep can be the perfect way to invite His peace and presence into both your bedroom and your heart.

Sample lyrics:

Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide!
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

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This hymn is a powerful reminder of the Truth found in Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” 

Living in a fallen world, it can be tempting for us to allow our emotions to become caught up in the events swirling around us–the chaos and storms of life. And yet this song “Be Still, My Soul,” invites us to quiet our hearts and rest in the security of God’s unshakable peace.

Written by Katharina von Schlegel in 1752 and later translated by Jane Borthwick, the lyrics are set to the beautiful, calming tune of Jean Sibelius’ “Finlandia.” 

It reminds me of the moment when Jesus was asleep in the boat during the storm. While the disciples panicked, He chose to rest instead. (See Mark 4:35-41.) That kind of peace only comes from knowing that our Father is in control. See, it’s only in knowing that God is Lord that we can come to trust in Him–and it is through trusting in Him that we can find perfect peace. It’s easy to do that while listening to this song, as it encourages us to surrender our anxieties and fix our eyes on God’s faithfulness instead.

It’s the perfect song to play as you wind down for the night. The lyrics and tune create space to exhale the worries of the day and inhale His peace, turning your thoughts toward God’s promises instead of your problems. That’s exactly the “peace remedy” that we find in Philippians 4:6-7: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

This hymn helps us do just that—release the tension as we rest in the Truth that He can work all things together for good (Romans 8:28).

Sample lyrics:

Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

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I especially love the victorious, triumphant feel to this popular hymn. “There Is Power in the Blood,” written by Lewis E. Jones in 1899 during a Christian convention in Maryland, emphasizes the unstoppable power of Jesus’ sacrifice. It’s no wonder it’s become a classic in revival meetings and church gatherings across the decades!

The lyrics center us right back on the gospel. They remind us of what the Blood of Jesus really means for us, the benefits of our salvation: forgiveness, freedom, cleansing, healing, grace, and an entirely new life overall. No longer are we bound by our sins, our shame, or our past. It is only through the Blood of Christ that we have hope! It’s through His Blood that we gain eternal security and peace—and that’s something that no circumstance can take away. Nothing in this world has the power to shake our salvation.

This song is especially encouraging when you need to remember that you don’t need to fight your battles alone. The victory has already been won. The evil, suffering, and sin of this world have been wiped away by the Blood of the Lamb! And it is through this Blood that we can overcome all things (see Revelation 12:11). It’s also through His blood that we can be brought near to God (see Ephesians 2:13). That alone is a reason to rejoice! And in this state of rejoicing we can find true peace. Why? Because, when our minds are occupied with rejoicing, our thoughts won’t have any room for anxiety to enter. This is the perfect state to end your day–with a heart full of praise.

Sample lyrics:

Would you be free from the burden of sin?
There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you o’er evil a victory win?
There’s wonderful power in the blood.

There is power, power, wonder-working power
In the blood of the Lamb;
There is power, power, wonder-working power
In the precious blood of the Lamb.

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The sanctuary that Jesus’ sacrifice and the cross provide is powerfully reflected in this well-known hymn. The words, which were written in 1868 by Scottish poet Elizabeth Cecilia Clephane, capture her trust in Jesus despite all of life’s hardships. I especially love the beautiful imagery that leads us to the foot of the cross–our place of safety, mercy, and peace. 

Like a child resting safely in a father’s embrace, we are invited to rest in the comforting presence of God–our refuge and security. A child doesn’t need to fret over what the next day holds for them, because they know they can place their trust in their loving, earthly father. He handles the concerns of life for them. In the same way, no matter the weight of our worries, we can lay them down at the cross, knowing He has already carried them for us. As 1 Peter 2:24 reminds us: “...who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.” 

Just like a child feels safe in their parent’s arms, we, too, can find perfect peace knowing that we are forever held in the arms of our Heavenly Father.

Sample lyrics:

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand,
The shadow of a mighty rock within a weary land;
A home within the wilderness, a rest upon the way,
From the burning of the noontide heat, and the burden of the day.

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This hymn, which was first written by the prolific writer Charles Wesley in 1747, is a sincere prayer for God’s perfect love to reside within us. The way that his poetic words are beautifully set to various tunes–including John Zundel’s “Beecher”--makes it the perfect song to reflect on before bedtime, as it can lull us into a state of total relaxation as we rest in His eternal love. 

We are reminded, as we listen, that God’s love surpasses all things we face in life–and we are invited to rest in the comfort of His embrace as we surrender the worries of this world to Him. In doing so, we allow the balm of His love to calm our fears, echoing the Truth found in 1 John 4:18: “Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.” Only God’s perfect love has the total power to soothe our anxious spirits. 

As you listen, allow these lyrics to be a prayer that fills your heart with His peace, and rest in this Truth: That you are safe, secure, and held in the embrace of Love Himself.

Sample lyrics:

Love divine, all loves excelling,
Joy of heaven to earth come down;
Fix in us Thy humble dwelling,
All Thy faithful mercies crown!
Jesus, Thou art all compassion,
Pure, unbounded love Thou art;
Visit us with Thy salvation,
Enter every trembling heart.

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lthough Dorothy A. Thrupp wrote this classic hymn for children when it was first published in 1836, people of all ages can relate to its message. The lyrics paint a portrayal of Jesus as our Good Shepherd who watches over us with love and care–which goes perfectly with the melody by William B. Bradbury. As you listen, it’s easy to allow the imagery from Psalm 23:1-4 to come to life: “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,  he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” What a beautiful reminder that He is the One who leads, guides, and guards you through every path of life. Regardless of circumstances, you don’t lack a thing with Him by your side, and it is only His presence that can refresh your soul. This Truth is also emphasized in John 10:14: “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me…” His presence calms our fears and assures us that we are never alone. We are always under the watchful eye of our Good Shepherd; knowing that, we can unwind as we release the burdens of the day, knowing that His tender care is more than enough.

Sample lyrics:

Savior, like a shepherd lead us,
 Much we need Thy tender care;
 In Thy pleasant pastures feed us,
 For our use Thy folds prepare.

Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
 Thou hast bought us, Thine we are;
 Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
 Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.

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This song, written by Fanny J. Crosby in 1890, serves as a beautiful reminder that Jesus Christ is our continual hiding place in Christ. Crosby, who was blind from birth, composed of over 8000 hymns that emphasize spiritual sight. This hymn invites us into that special space where our souls are hidden in the “cleft of the rock”—a place of peace, shelter, and love in the arms of our Savior. This visual echoes Moses’ encounter with God, and the gentle melody can ease us into a restful state as we listen. As you listen to its gentle rhythm, allow your breaths to deepen and rest in the Truth of Psalm 27:5: “For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.” Whatever storms you may find swirling around you, find peace in the reminder that you are safe in Him. 

Sample lyrics:

A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,
A wonderful Savior to me;
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock,
Where rivers of pleasure I see.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock
That shadows a dry, thirsty land;
He hideth my life in the depths of His love,
And covers me there with His hand.

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This song is especially comforting for those who are searching for hope in the midst of pain and grief. It was written by prolific hymn writer Fanny J. Crosby in 1868, not long after hearing a melody composed by William H. Doane. She composed the words instantly, inspired by sorrow—specifically, the death of a friend’s child. Yet even though this song was birthed out of pain, it directs our hearts to the source of our hope in Jesus Christ. 

The lyrics paint a picture of complete safety—nestled in Jesus’ arms, resting in His loving embrace–paired perfectly with its tender melody. It is often sung at funerals, but its gentle melody is perfect for falling asleep. As we rest, we can remember that our lives are cradled in the care of a loving Savior. No matter the grief, fear, or heaviness we carry, we can lay it all down and find peace, just like a child wrapped in the arms of a loving parent. We can trust that Jesus has experienced the pain and suffering of this world too. Whatever suffering we experience in this life, Jesus knows what it feels like because He’s experienced the harsh realities of this world. And He longs to serve as our Comforter. We can allow His embrace to melt away the sting of the suffering of this world because He has already overcome, just as we are reminded of in John 16:33: “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Sample Lyrics:

Safe in the arms of Jesus,
Safe on His gentle breast;
There by His love o’ershaded,
Sweetly my soul shall rest.

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This song was originally a poem by Vernon J. Charlesworth, a pastor, and was set to music in the late 19th Century by Ira D. Sankey for a good reason–it has a beautiful potential to remind us of an important truth: that the Lord is our anchor during the storms of life. It helps listeners to direct our attention to the Lord’s provision, painting a picture of Him as our shelter during the trials of life. That, paired with the steady rhythm of the hymn, makes it a soothing song to listen to as you drift off to sleep, reminding us of God’s unwavering security and the truth found in Psalm 46:1-2: “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea…” 

This hymn reminds us that God is our shelter in times of storms–regardless of how powerful the storms might be. Nothing in this world can shake us from our foundation in Christ, and He can carry us through everything we face. As we fall asleep, listening to this song can direct our focus back to the unmovable Rock of Christ, pointing our gaze away from the difficulties of life that may be whirling around us. While listening, allow God to make His presence and His nearness known to you, providing the comfort and strength you need to release the suffering of the world and trust that He will give you the strength you need for tomorrow.

Sample lyrics:

The Lord’s our Rock, in Him we hide,
 A shelter in the time of storm;
 Secure whatever ill betide,
 A shelter in the time of storm.

Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
 A weary land, a weary land;
 Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
 A shelter in the time of storm.

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Priscilla J. Owens, a Sunday School teacher, wrote this popular hymn in 1883 to reflect the comfort, guidance, and strength we find in God’s Word. Since Owens was a Sunday School teacher, she wrote many songs for youth–which explains why this song has a simple melody, making it soothing to listen to at bedtime. With a gentle, hopeful melody, this hymn reminds us of the assurance we can rest in as we meditate on Scripture. No matter what uncertainties we face, His Word is our steady light (Psalm 119:105)—our guide when the path is unclear. It reminds us that, though the seasons of life may change, the security of His Word remains forever. And when we are tossed and turned throughout life, and the changes of life cause us to develop anxiety or unrest, we can find assurance in the truth that His Word will never fail (Luke 1:37). We always have hope in this dark world—and this hope can help to dissolve whatever troubles us as we lay down to rest.   

As you prepare for sleep, let the truth of Isaiah 40:8 wash over your heart: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” His promises do not change. His Word will not fail. 

Sample lyrics:

Give me the Bible, star of gladness gleaming,
 To cheer the wanderer lone and tempest-tossed;
 No storm can hide that radiant, peaceful beaming,
 Since Jesus came to seek and save the lost.

Give me the Bible, holy message shining;
 Thy light shall guide me in the narrow way;
 Precept and promise, law and love combining,
 Till night shall vanish in eternal day.

Listen to all these soothing songs for sleep below. I pray peaceful rest for you as you trust in the Lord's loving care. 

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