Discerning Destiny

Ever think you knew what God's plan was for your life, gone forward with assurance, seen signs of God's approval, had doors opened, wonderful events happen, and then have everything fall apart? That's good. Because such is the stuff of learning discernment.

Discernment is not a sure or hard science. It's an intuition. It is hearing that small whisper within the heart, and translating what it is saying. It is stepping out when you think you understand. But most of all, it is taking a chance at being wrong. You cannot learn discernment without a willingness to make a mistake.

Each baptized individual has the spirit within, through the powerful presence of God that dwells in the soul. Discernment requires an awareness of that spirit, with sensitivity to its inspirations and enlightenment. Discernment is not hearing a voice or seeing a vision; it is recognizing a Way. The first step toward that recognition requires knowledge of our own frailty. Going forward means you are searching, not that you are succeeding. In fact, acknowledging a mistake and turning again to discernment is a sure signal you are learning to listen. Only those who listen carefully can discern better.

Life is a journey. One's path can lead in convoluted directions. Yet, as sure as God is God, each of us has a destiny to fulfill. Precisely because each person's destiny is different, he or she will find fulfillment only through learning careful discernment. Because no one knows where God wants you or what His plans are for you. Only he can tell you that, in the deep recesses of your heart.