We’ve all been in a situation where someone gets agitated or highly emotional and loses their temper and the other person will respond in a strong tone, Calm Down!

For many the idea of peace or calm, is sitting in the lotus position, eyes closed chanting om. Nothing against meditation, but that’s not it.  Others define peace or calm as the absence of conflict, that’s partially true.

To me the perfect picture of peace and calm is Jesus in the stern of a boat asleep on a pillow while His disciples are freaking out asking, “Don’t you care that we are about to die?”, as the waves and the wind crash in around them. Jesus gets up, and rebukes the wind, the waves, and the disciples. In each account of this event recorded in three of the Gospels it says they had to wake Him up! – That’s funny. And that there was a great calm. Jesus said, “Peace, be still.” Side note – can’t help but wonder if afterwards He finished his nap.

Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still or cease striving and know that I am God.” Psalm 23 presents a wonderful scene of peace and calm. A calm spirit and life are key to experiencing rest and life balance. Ever notice people who are calm have a calming effect on those around them?

A dictionary definition of calm is without rough motion, still or nearly still. Freedom from motion or disturbance. Freedom from agitation, or excitement, under control. That might be the world’s definition of calmness, but I think its incomplete and misses the mark.

The idea of calmness or peace during conflict is more accurate. In John 14:27 Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” No question, Jesus is the source of peace and calm. That being said, there is much we can do to cultivate a calm life and spirit.

Physcially- We need to slow down. The pace of life has become so frenetic. Why are we in such a hurry? Be intentional, establish rhythms and routines in the morning, evening, and throughout your day that promote calmness. Personally, frequent walks have helped me greatly to relax, recalibrate and retain calmness. Also understanding and following my circadian rhythm has done wonders for me. Simplifying your life stimulates calm. Have fewer possessions, schedule fewer activities, deliberately have times of nothing on your calendar. Get out in nature, try aroma therapy, listen to relaxing and soothing music. Establish a quiet place in your home.

Spiritually and Mentally – Start your morning with a quiet time with the Lord. Spend time in the Scriptures, prayer and meditation. Avoid looking at email, social media, or the news first thing in the morning. Don’t touch that phone! Give God the first and the last word of the day.

Be mindful of what you absorb throughout the day – news, toxic conversations, gossip. Keep watch for things that trigger anxiety. Stop dwelling on or replaying negative events over and over in your mind. Detox mentally and start practicing what I call a “daily data dump”. Don’t have a backup drive, hit the “delete permanently” button.

Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.”

• YouTube