Word the last word

On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.  – Psalm 63:6–7

Dawson Trotman, a dynamic Christian leader of the mid-twentieth century and founder of The Navigators, emphasized the importance of the Bible in the life of every Christian. Trotman ended each day with a practice he called “His Word the last word.” Before going to sleep he meditated on a memorized Bible verse or passage, then prayed about its place and influence in his life. He wanted the last words he thought about each day to be God’s words.

The psalmist David wrote, “On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings”  (Ps. 63:6–7). Whether we are in great difficulty or enjoying a time of peace, our last thought at night can ease our minds with the rest and comfort God gives. It may also set the tone for our first thought the next morning.

A friend and his wife conclude each day by reading aloud a Bible passage and daily devotional with their four children. They welcome questions and thoughts from each child and talk about what it means to follow Jesus at home and school. They call it their version of “His Word the last word” for each day.

What better way to end our day! – David McCasland

Thank You Father, for Your Word in our hearts and our minds—our last thought at night as we rest securely in You.

Read: Psalm 63:1-11

The Spirit of God renews our minds when we meditate on the Word of God.

Bible in a Year: Ruth 1–4 and Luke 8:1–25