I snapped this scene with a screen shot from my iPhone. It’s the view of our sunny deck at the ranch, as revealed by my security camera app. A sense of calm rushes through me at the serene sight. Though not physically there, the image helps me recapture the sense of peace I feel whenever I am at Whispering Oaks Ridge. There, nestled away in the countryside, surrounded by nature’s beauty, my soul rests. I find solace. An unspoken assurance conveys a clear message that all will be well.

Today I’ve felt unsettled, a little anxious, with a growing sense of sadness at the state of our world. The horrendous war in Ukraine and the slaughter of innocents. The unrest and division here at home, and globally, weigh heavy on the hearts and minds of many of us.

I settle in silence to tackle the annual taxes—it’s not my favorite task but there’s no escaping it. The numbers blur on the page, my focus is shattered. The anguish in my gut signals a heightened awareness of the invisible war raging between good and evil—a fierce spiritual battle, the existence of which many would ignore or deny. So be it.

A hot cup of English tea to the rescue. A comforting distraction from my uneasiness. A little break in the day to relax with the love of my life. Then, a few minutes respite to sit at God’s feet and flood my soul with His promises, His assurances, His truth and His infinite wisdom.

I ignore the tax preparation calling my name. Instead, I choose to write. I bleed my emotions onto this page in words, and share ways I’ve learned to restore peace to my soul.

I pray you know a few simple ways to calm your soul in troubling times.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. —John 14:27