Discernment is a term often used by Christians to describe a process that goes beyond simply making a decision or choosing an option. It involves making a choice to pray and seek God’s guidance on where He is leading you. This prayerful consideration is crucial for major decisions, such as choosing a career, deciding whom to marry, or determining whether to embark on a mission trip. In such cases, it’s important to consult God about His desires for our paths. Here is a helpful guide to assist you.
Step One: Pray for Guidance
The process of discernment involves listening for God’s direction in our lives. To hear Him, we need to engage with His voice through prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments.
If you haven’t already, consider incorporating daily Scripture reading into your routine, attending Mass regularly, and dedicating 20-30 minutes to prayer each day. Remember, God is always ready to assist; He just waits for us to ask.
Example Prayer from St. Charles de Foucauld:
“Father, I abandon myself into your hands; do with me what you will. Whatever you may do, I thank you: I am ready for all, I accept all. Let only your will be done in me, and in all your creatures. I wish no more than this, O Lord. Into your hands, I commend my soul; I offer it to you with all the love of my heart, for I love you, Lord, and so need to surrender myself into your hands without reserve, and with boundless confidence, for you are my Father.”
Step Two: List Your Options
Begin by writing down all possible choices, which will form the basis of your discernment process. Whether it’s on a piece of paper or a new page in your journal, list everything without elimination at this stage. Leave space between each option for notes and additional considerations.
Step Three: Ask Questions
Evaluate your options by asking questions that can help guide your decision-making process. Bring these questions to prayer and give God a chance to influence your decisions. Consider consulting with a priest, spiritual director, or a trusted friend to help clarify any difficult choices. Here are some initial questions to start with:
- Is this option moral and in line with the Commandments and Beatitudes?
- Will it help my conversion of heart and bring me closer to God?
- How does it serve the current needs of the world or the Church?
- How will my unique gifts and talents be utilized?
- Does this align with Jesus’ Great Commission to make disciples of all nations?
Step Four: Next Action Steps
For the options that remain, determine what next steps you should take to further explore these paths. Actions might include filling out applications, going to interviews, or asking questions to those already involved in the fields you’re considering.
Learn more about what it’s like to be a FOCUS missionary from one of our past missionaries!
Step Five: Proceed (With Prayer)
As you take the next steps, intensify your prayer life. Remember, discernment is an ongoing process, and God wishes to spend time with you beyond it. Review your experiences prayerfully and continue to seek God’s guidance on any emerging questions.
Step Six: Choose and Trust
Hopefully, one option has emerged as a clear choice. Even if you are not completely certain, as long as you remain prayerful and close to the sacraments, trust that you are not derailing God’s plan for you. Make your decision with confidence, knowing that God’s grace will guide you through the next stages of your life.
Additional Resources
FOCUS is your hub for helping you to finding your vocation – whether that’s in the big stuff like career, marriage, religious life, or daily life like leading a Bible study or evangelizing in your community.
Fr. Mike Schmitz gives us all great insight into discerning our vocations in this blog and video. Browse through the rest of our blog to find useful guides, resources, and inspiration.
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