For decisions that matter

When you have to choose and cannot see clearly.

Vocation, a job, a move, a relationship, a hard decision about someone else’s life. Discernment is not waiting for a sign; it is a disciplined process of prayer, counsel and honesty, and it begins by asking for the willingness to accept the answer.

The Prayer

Lord, I have a choice to make and I cannot see clearly.

Before I ask for light, take from me the answer I have already decided on,
so that I can hear Yours.

Quiet the noise: my fear of what people will think,
my fear of missing out,
my habit of choosing whatever costs least.

Show me what is good, and give me the courage to want it.
Show me what is Yours, and give me the freedom to choose it.

And if the way is still dark after I have prayed and taken counsel,
give me the grace to decide anyway,
trusting that You are not waiting to trap me,
and that You can write straight with whatever I choose. Amen.

The Practice

1. Pray first, and pray for indifference — the freedom to go either way.
2. Gather the facts. Discernment is not a substitute for information.
3. Weigh both options fully. Spend a day living as though decided one way, then the other, and notice the difference in peace.
4. Take counsel from someone wise who will tell you the truth — a priest, a spiritual director, an honest friend.
5. Decide, and then ask God to confirm the decision rather than waiting forever for certainty.

About Discernment

St. Ignatius’ rule is worth remembering: in a time of peace, God’s will is usually recognised by a deep and quiet consolation rather than by excitement, and decisions made in a time of desolation should not be made at all. Never change a settled course while you are in the dark; wait for the light to come back.