Discernment

To discern is to sift the good from the not so good that we may gain wisdom of heart. To ponder and discern means to listen in a deep way to what is going on in our lives.

We pray to be drawn into the deeper recesses of our experience where light and joy, shadow and confusion may reside. We pray that we may come to peace and move forward in freedom. We seek to make good choices, free of the folly of favour, compromise or fear.

Experience, it is said, is the best teacher in life. Ignatius instinctively knew that. He encouraged people not only to find God in the revelation of the Scriptures, but always in the experience of life. It is common today to talk about the scriptures of one own's life experience, and ask how are we reading the signs of God's presence.

To ponder and discern means to listen in a deep way to what is going on in our lives. Do I recognise the good Spirit at work? Where am I being led? What choices do I need to take? What might need to change? What are the mitigating circumstances that affect me? Am I seeing clearly? Do I need further advice? St Frances de Sales said that "the person who has him/herself as a director has a fool for a guide". Am I fooling myself? Where is truth? Am I being fully truthful?

Not only in the small moments but also in the big circumstances of life, discernment is a good companion. When we come to a crossroads and face a life-changing decision: that is when we need the gift of discernment. Both Ignatius and Mary Ward were great examples of people who practised discernment, seeking only to do what was pleasing to God, choosing life not death.

Each of us will experience something that requires resolution in our life at one point or another.

Use this guide to help you reach a peaceful and truthful outcome next time something is on your mind.

(As you follow these steps below select 'hide' in the top right corner of your screen to close this page and view the peaceful imagery by Susan Daily ibvm.)

• Identify or name the issue.
• Seek clarity through conversation with people .
• Seek clarity through prayer. Think about where God is active in your life.
• Give it time, let the issue rest.
• Ask: Where is God leading you?
• Clarity will emerge, the truth will reveal itself.