How to Discern | LITTLE BY LITTLE | Fr Columba Jordan CFR

Summary

The speaker discusses the importance of discernment in deepening one's spiritual life. They emphasize that discernment is about prayerfully determining God's specific will for an individual, not just choosing between good options. The process involves seeking holy indifference, being unattached to personal desires, and listening for God's guidance through feelings of love, joy, and peace. The speaker highlights the significance of surrendering all aspects of life to God, ensuring actions align with His will, and experiencing the grace and fulfillment that comes with it.

Takeaways

• 🎯 Discernment is key to deepening your spiritual life and understanding God's will.
• 🙏 A daily prayer practice is essential for effective discernment; aim for at least 30 minutes a day.
• 🎒 Holy indifference is crucial—detach from unhelpful attachments and focus on God's will.
• 📝 Keep a list of significant decisions you need to discern, avoiding trivial matters.
• 🧘‍♂️ Achieving peace and calm before discernment helps ensure you're ready to receive God's guidance.
• 🌟 Consolation, characterized by love, joy, and peace, is a clear indicator of God's 'yes.'
• 🚫 If you feel no movement in your heart, it's likely a 'no'—don't be afraid to say no to others.
• 📜 Regularly return to the grace of your discernment to stay focused and aligned with God's will.
• 💡 Practicing discernment reduces stress and increases joy by ensuring you act in accordance with God's desires.
• 🌍 Discernment isn't just about making decisions; it's about surrendering all aspects of your life to God.

Q & A

What is the most necessary thing to enhance one's spiritual life, according to the speaker?

The speaker suggests that discernment is the most necessary thing to enhance one's spiritual life. It involves prayerful consideration to understand God's will and make decisions that align with it.

How does the speaker define discernment in a Christian context?

Discernment is defined as a prayerful process of deciding what actions to take by understanding what God wants rather than just choosing from multiple good options.

What are the preliminary steps to discernment mentioned in the script?

The preliminary steps to discernment include living a serious Christian life, regularly praying for at least half an hour daily, and ensuring one is not in a state of spiritual desolation.

What is meant by 'holy indifference' in the context of discernment?

Holy indifference refers to a state of being free from any attachment or aversion towards any outcome, allowing a person to be open to whatever God wills without personal biases.

What does the speaker recommend doing if someone struggles to achieve 'holy indifference'?

The speaker recommends praying for grace, making acts of faith, expressing gratitude, and surrendering any attachments or fears to God to achieve 'holy indifference'.

What should one do if they experience fear or doubt during discernment?

If fear or doubt arises, one should return to the preparatory steps such as making acts of faith, expressing gratitude, and trusting that God will make His will clear.

How does the speaker suggest determining God's 'yes' or 'no' in discernment?

The speaker suggests asking God directly for clarity and then listening for movements of the heart, such as feelings of peace, joy, love (for a 'yes'), or a sense of neutrality or lack of feeling (for a 'no').

What role does 'consolation' play in the process of discernment?

Consolation, which can manifest as love, joy, peace, or other positive movements of the heart, is seen as a sign of God's 'yes' or affirmation during the discernment process.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of not questioning a decision once discerned?

The speaker emphasizes this to prevent confusion and doubt, which can disrupt the clarity achieved through discernment. Sticking to the discerned decision allows for a stronger faith and trust in God's guidance.

What does the speaker suggest doing if the discernment is unclear after a session of prayer?

If discernment remains unclear, the speaker suggests pausing the discernment process and returning to it the next day. It is important not to rush but to wait for clear guidance from God.

How can returning to the 'grace of the discernment' help during moments of doubt or confusion?

Returning to the 'grace of the discernment' involves recalling the feelings and experiences of peace and clarity felt during discernment. This helps reaffirm the decision made and strengthens confidence in God's guidance.