How do we discern the will of God? Saint Paul told the Romans, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
A simple formula for discernment is ask, test and trust.
First, ask. The book of James says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all men generously…and it will be given him”
Second, test. In Thessalonians it says, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit, … but test everything; hold fast what is good.
Finally, trust. In Proverbs, we hear, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
By first asking God, we recognize that there is a God, and we are not Him. By testing, we focus on good choices. In trusting, we remove our human anxiety, freeing us recognize God’s loving will.
And the best way to do this is by journaling. By documenting your cycles of asking, testing, and trusting, you will see patterns of the Spirit guiding you.
Let’s pray – Father of Grace and Mercy. In your love, you give us free will to pursue our own path in life. Help us to ask, test and trust, that we may discern well the path you have designed for us. Amen.