All of us on a daily basis are confronted with choices. How do we decide which ones to proceed with and which ones to lay aside. Some of our decisions are quite simple, while others are something that we agonize over and spend much time and consideration of. Some of us use logic and past experience in an attempt to discern which way to go, while others are more intuitive. There are however steps we all in some way make in the process, to weigh our decisions.
When we look at the Gospels, we see in the lives of the saints before us how they made choices. We see some of the ways in which the discernment process played out in their lives and ministry. Most of us have seen modeled before them, how others today make decisions. We evaluate their methods and sit back waiting to see the outcome. We may also have taken part in their process and helped them come to those very decisions. Universally, each one of us look back upon our previous choices and how we made them when we seek to make current ones. So what are some things to consider when making a choice?What should be a part of how we as believers navigate through the array of decisions before us?
Some things are a given to our process of discernment. Obviously, we need to spend time in prayer asking God to reveal to us and direct us in the way in which we should go. We need to search and know God’s word, the concepts and patterns found in there that the Spirit uses to guide us. In the process, asking, does this conflict with scripture or the principles of scripture?
In addition, we need to know who we are. Jesus knew who he was before the Father, and yet before he began his ministry he spent time in prayer and fasting. Even in his baptismal experience he was given an affirmation by God of who he was and how much he was valued. We need to know who we are in God. It is foundational in our discernment process and staying in tune with that helps us to make right choices. Based upon who we are and the gifts given to each of us, is one criterion by which our decisions need to be made. We need to ask, am I faithful to my authentic self?
After taking into consideration these things, we need to be open. Many times our past experiences may hinder this openness. Our own agendas or bias also limit us in our ability to be open. There needs to be a letting go on our part of these, for us to be open and available while making choices in our lives.
How do you decide? What process of discernment do you go through for major decisions?
Picture: The Peoples Choice Award Logo by, Ponchosqueal
Print This Post
Comments on this entry are closed.