The First of its Kind:
Back to Peace: A Miracle Journal

Ray O. Kelly is a devoted believer in God through Jesus Christ. He is passionate about the Word of God, the ways of God, and the character of God. He believes deeply that God will truly never leave nor forsake us, and that even when the worst of things happen, God uses those things to bring about His will for our lives.   

When asked about his best advice for believers, Ray comments, “Recognizing and learning to obey God’s voice is key for success in this journey through this part of life. That still, small, quiet voice deep on the inside of us that never tells us to do something that does not align with God’s ways, nature, and character (as expressed in the  Word of God, the Holy Bible) is something the believer must learn to hear at all times for decision-making and direction. There is also another voice inside of us (from our humanity) that often “speaks” the opposite message to us. We must also recognize it and learn not to trust it exclusively. While the human part of us may be “smart” as we define intellect, it is unable to comprehend spiritual matters. Therefore, let us lean not on our own understanding, but seek God in all things. Also, let us not quickly forget all the wonders God has performed to get us as far as we are in life.”

Asked about whether this journal can help non-believers or people with different beliefs, Ray’s response is, “Absolutely.  Miracles happen in people’s lives whether they believe in God or not. It’s like rain – it falls on all of us, regardless. It is helpful to reflect on the wondrous things that have happened in our lives, because it can lead us to a place of gratitude for what we have.” 

Why did Ray develop this journal?

Ray’s answer is, “I believe that God inspired me to develop this tool as a way to share some of what I learned through difficult experiences to help people win the battle of the mind, that is, to get and maintain peace, so that they can focus on the issue on the important things they need to do in the midst of it all. Having endured a lot of pain in my lifetime and having regained my footing on the solid ground that comes from regaining my peace, I have learned some key things. I now know that I can get through it, survive, and get back on the road to thriving. Everyone’s difficulties are different. Mine included many extremely tough situations that seemed hopeless in terms of my being able to regain my peace.  The unexpected deaths of multiple close family members and friends, betrayals from people I thought would always be worthy of my trust, economic hardship from not having enough income, complications in relationships that I wanted to have in my life, and feelings of low self-esteem and worthlessness at times pushed me to the brink of my capacity to endure.  However, my help in times of trouble came from God’s power in my life.  It shifted my mindset – and pointed me Back to Peace.”  

Ray continues, “I don’t know the challenges you have faced, so I don’t claim to speak for you. I can only share my personal experience, hoping to help you avoid years of worry, stress, and anxiety by sharing this tool with you. At one point, so many negative things were happening that I questioned whether I would even survive, much less actually get Back to Peace.  I want to encourage you by letting you know that there is hope if you will keep going and not give up.  If you have the right tools and an open mind, you can make it through.  I wish I could tell you that everything will return to what you see as normal.  I cannot.  Things may change at the end of your situation, and they may not go as you want.  What I can tell you is that if you can find your peace, you can gain the strength to get up and move forward again. If you can achieve that, you still have the opportunity to emerge and live a life of purpose.”

Are there other reasons to use Back to Peace?

Yes. In addition to the reasons already mentioned, journaling is a powerful outlet for our minds. It can be therapeutic in our search for a peaceful mind, simply because of its effects on our brains. Ray adds, “I believe that people of all backgrounds can gain new understanding and revelations by merely reflecting on the unexplainable outcomes that all of us have encountered or will encounter at various points in our lives. Keep asking the question – how did it happen? Your doctor, manager, professor, best friend, or sister may not know. Keep reflecting and seeking answers.  

I hope that this journal and other tools that are planned for Back to Peace will help you to pull yourself out of the quicksand of despair and back onto the solid ground of a peaceful mind. On those days when we inevitably feel discouraged and wonder if God will help us, if He truly cares about us, or if He even exists, may your reflections in this tool remind you of the marvelous things He has already done. An attitude of gratitude is one very effective path Back to Peace.”

“From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”

– Psalm 61:2 KJV