An issue I often hear about is the struggle men have with their dream life. They want to live pure lives but their dreams are often rife with sexual scenes or violent images. From where do these dreams come and what can be done about them? Many would say that nothing can be done because, after all, we’re asleep and not even conscious. Not so.
First some Biblical background on dreams and then I’ll address the issue of erotic and violent dreams. The Bible describes how God uses dreams to speak to people. God spoke to His prophets through dreams (Numbers 12:6, Deuteronomy 13:1), to the unsaved such as Abimelech, Nebuchadnezzar, and Pontius Pilate’s wife through dreams, and to the saved including Jacob, Joseph, and Solomon in the Old Testament and Joseph, husband of Mary, in the New Testament. Dreams are one of His key methods of communicating His message.
Dreams are often the result of three sources: a) past memories, b) images we have recently seen on television, in a magazine, or on our computers, or c) fantasies. They usually are nonsensical and have no significant meaning. Common dreams include flying, falling, and overcoming some obstacle. The issue for men is when their dreams turn erotic or violent. Many have reported that they wake up only to find themselves sexually aroused or trembling in fear.
How can we handle our dream life? What can we do about it? Here’s a strategy for a good night’s sleep: before going to sleep invite Jesus Christ to be on sentry duty and guard your mind against erotic or violent dreams. Ask Him in prayer to protect your mind from these types of dreams, to give you restful sleep, and wake you refreshed and ready to serve Him tomorrow. Does that work? Will Jesus really guard our minds and dispel any toxic dreams? Oh yes. Philippians 4:6-8 challenges us to invite Him to do so.
The Apostle Paul says,
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
Can the peace of God guard our hearts and minds while we sleep? I believe He can.
Sweet dreams,
Irv