Sleep When the Baby Sleeps - God's Gentle Reminder

Motherhood brings with it a flood of emotions — joy, wonder, exhaustion, and sometimes uncertainty. In the middle of it all, there are bits of timeless wisdom passed down through generations, whispering reminders of grace and care. One such piece of advice deeply shaped my early days as a mom.

When I was a first-time mom thirty-something years ago, one piece of advice I received, and that has stayed with me, was, "Sleep when the baby sleeps." Sometimes it was said sternly; other times, it was whispered gently as a suggestion.

I believe this may have been one of the truest pieces of advice I ever received, even though it often seems controversial. It brings up many questions: How is this even possible? What if my baby isn’t a good sleeper? Aren’t there other things that need to be done while the baby is sleeping? Can I really do this? Why does this advice keep coming up?

Having a baby is both exhilarating and exhausting. You are stretched in so many ways while carrying the incredible responsibility entrusted to you. It can feel like a 24-hour job. Your schedule shifts dramatically, and for a little while, it will seem like your newborn is running the show. Babies need to be fed, changed, and held, but only on their time, not yours, especially if you’re used to structure and order.

"Sleep when the baby sleeps" carries deep wisdom from those who have gone before us. It’s an acknowledgment of the importance of restorative rest, so we can care for what’s been placed before us. It’s permission to let go of the pressure that every household chore must be completed immediately. It's a reminder that some things can wait for a season.

Though many may balk at this advice, I don’t think older moms will ever stop passing it down. It’s wisdom that runs contrary to the busy, productivity-driven thinking of our culture but it actually works. It was never meant to be permanent, just a temporary grace until a new mom adjusts to this new life entrusted to her.

Every time I hear this phrase and notice how much resistance it receives, I’m reminded of the verse that says God’s wisdom is not like human wisdom. 1 Corinthians 1:25 reminds us that what may seem foolish or weak by human standards is, in fact, the demonstration of God's superior wisdom and strength.

"Sleep when the baby sleeps" feels like a small echo of that divine wisdom to me.

Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1 Corinthians 1:25 NKJV

If you’re in a season where rest feels impossible or guilt tries to creep in when you pause, know this: God sees you. He knows the weight you carry and the love you pour out. Accept His invitation to rest, even in small moments, and trust that His wisdom is guiding you, one gentle step at a time.

You are doing holy work, Mama. And you’re not alone.

Did you sleep when the baby slept? What other advice have you received that sounded like nonsense but actually contained great wisdom? 

Note - that's a picture of me as a first-time mom with my 6-week-old son.

--Nylse

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