Light spilled from the kitchen windows, I could see my friend sitting at the table, sipping from a steaming cup. Smiling, I entered anticipating a peaceful interlude. What I experienced was auditory chaos. Music, laughter, and the unmistakable sound of teen boys was emanating from the second floor. Unfazed, my friend had learned to achieve calm in chaos.
Sometimes my life can seem chaotic, or at least over-stimulating.
Have you ever felt like that? Maybe it was after a hard day at work, or perhaps after a day of parenting toddlers, or teens.
Regardless of where you are in life, calm will call your name.
As I waiting in the kitchen for my son to emerge, I noticed their beautiful dog, lying on her stomach in her kennel. Why, I asked the smiling, unperturbed mom, was Sugar not with the boys?
Well, she responded when things get too much for Sugar, she goes into her safe kennel.
The dog too had achieved calm in chaos!
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
Psalm 46:10 (NLT)
When the stresses in my life seems overwhelming, I yearn for quiet.
As soon as I am able, I take a moment, and make a bee line to my chair.
Eyes closed I sit. Maybe I am not that unlike Sugar!
Taking Action to Achieve Calm in Chaos
Breathing deeply my muscles unfurl slowly. My hands unclench; my mind slows. With time, my thoughts become still.
I remember who God is, His power, His grace and His unfailing love.
I remember prayers answered, and met needs by Him.
As I think about His love, the love that is deep and complete, I relax further.
No force can separate me from God or His love. (Romans 8:38-39)
I thank Him for that and slowly, I release my concerns and questions to Him. And as I do, the chaos subsides. I return to being content where I am in this season of life.
How about you friend? How do you achieve calm in chaos?
In case you missed it, here are some more ways of achieving calm.
loved this vision of you seeking Him and His calm, Cathy…..once I remember I don’t have to be in the middle of the chaos, (He has to nudge me), I am so grateful to be able to seek His face and thank Him for all He has provided!
Thank you, Karen! Remembering that I don’t have to be in the chaos is definitely half of the battle for me!