From the Psalm:
“Blessed is the man who follows not
the counsel of the wicked
Nor walks in the way of sinners,
Nor sits in the company of the insolent,
But delights in the law of the Lord
And meditates on his law day and night.”
We had a big election this year and there were many voices ready to “counsel” us on what is right vs wrong, just vs unjust, etc, etc. When I went through my divorce many people had “suggestions” on what I should or should not do. There are many times in our lives – in big decisions and in little every day decisions – where the world will offer “advice.” Our job isn’t to dismiss others, but to discern God’s voice in the midst of all the voices. What does God call me to?
Discerning God’s voice comes with knowing God’s voice. We learn God’s voice through daily prayer - prayer that involves not only speaking to God, but listening also. When we know the voice of God, we can hear it more clearly even in the midst of the noise and busyness that threatens to drown Him out.
For many of us discernment is not easy. Here are some steps that can help guide you in making those big, and little, decisions in life.