Discernment

Four helpful steps in the process of discernment

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1. Become aware

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Has anyone invited me to consider a particular vocation or become actively involved in a ministry?

  • Has anyone recognised and affirmed gifts and talents in me and challenged me to use them for a greater good?

  • Do I acknowledge that these voices could be God’s subtle way of leading me toward my vocation in life?

  • What have others told me about myself and my qualities?

  • How do I sit with these voices in the midst of my busy life? How do I sift through all my thoughts?

  • Do I take these experiences to prayer? How much time do I spend in prayer?

  • Have I asked God’s assistance as I strive to listen for my vocation in life?

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2. Gather information and investigate options

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • What are my gifts?

  • What gives me joy in my life?

  • Where am I best suited to serve?

  • What motives are driving me in my choices?

  • Where am I resisting God’s invitation?

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3. Discern what you understand to be God's will (this means acting on some choices!)

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • What is the most loving choice I can make?

  • What is the choice that will help me be most fully myself?

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4. Look for confirmation of your choice

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • As I consider each option how do I feel? Is there peace or excitement within me, even in the midst of doubts?

  • What happens when I share my choice with other people? How do they respond?

  • How do I understand negative responses that occur within me? How do I interpret negative responses I receive from family members or friends?

  • Do I find God’s voice in the voices of those who know me and love me?

  • Do I take any criticism or concern as an opportunity to examine my motivations – do I find myself strengthened rather than weakened in my resolve?

Above all, discernment means listening for God’s call, so make sure you:

  • Build a relationship with the one where you have a sense of coming home.  Get involved in its community or ministry programs.  Don't just talk the talk - walk the walk with them as well.

  • Engage in conversation with trusted people and friends who can listen deeply to you and journey in love with you.

  • Embrace silence in order to hear God’s voice calling.  With prayer, reflection, and dialogue with others we trust, we learn from our journey over time.

  • Find a spiritual director or companion - somebody you can be open with, who can help you to develop your relationship with God and to know yourself better.

  • Read up on religious and priestly life.  Look online and in-person about people who are living their discipleship with Jesus in a religious community and engage with their stories. Reading this now means you are on the way!

  • Join the Marist Contact Program.

  • Visit the ones you feel called to.

  • Listen to your own heart and desires. Your informed and curious conscience and good reflective practices will assist your discernment.

  • Wait for God. Discerning your vocation is a process.  God's timing is always perfect - but seldom seems soon enough!