Understanding Discernment Paul Reiter NRT/NVT Discernment Jacksonville, FL January 20-24, 2016

What is Discernment? Discernment is the process of intentionally becoming aware of how God is present, active, and calling us as individuals and communities. Discernment involves “sifting” through the choices and voices that surround us. Discernment does not confirm hunches or intuitions. It is the perilous practice that involves self-criticism, questions, and risk The real one who does the discerning is the Holy Spirit.

Defining Biblical Discernment Involves a choice between alternatives Not choosing between good and evil, but between two seeming goods Or, the lesser of two evils Not for the weak-hearted and faint About relationship more than information for decision

Things to Remember… Result of discernment is not certainty, but a direction in which to move Perfect discernment does not exist Discernment keeps us open to God’s initiative rather than closing the issue Fruit of discernment appears most clearly in retrospect

Aids in Discernment Clarity about the will of God Does not require cracking a code Yearning more than achieving More like a vocation and an invitation Things money cannot buy Life experience Maturity Time

Discernment is about relationship Relationship not right choices Relationship is not based on a single decision or action Each decision provides new vistas, information, and perspective Mistakes are useful Nothing is wasted

One important criterion! Does the choice move us closer to God? Other approaches ask: Demonic or divine spirit? Human spirit or Holy Spirit? Self will or God’s will? The relationship approach asks: Is this the appropriate response to God?

Other Criteria of Discernment Study of Scripture – Old and New Testaments Wisdom for the past Members in a supportive community The movement of God in our souls (intuition, peace, conviction) The unfolding culture

An Ignatian Model of Discernment Depends on a few sensibilities Desire to discern Knowledge of self Humility Courage Indifference (putting God first) Desire to follow

The Liebert Model: Practical Form a clear question. Pray! Pray to be guided by God Gather data about the question Pray through the pros and cons Imagine you are advising someone else Make the decision that seems best Live with the decision before acting Look for inner peace and freedom Follow and listen

Conclusion What is God doing here? Ultimate question: Goal of discernment is to receive God’s guidance Give up private agendas