When you are faced with an important decision, it is wise to invite the Lord to be part of your decision-making process.  This is called discernment. 

Steps in Vincentian Discernment

Place yourself in God’s loving presence.   Spend a few moments quieting yourself to listen and feel with your heart.   Ask God to give you and open mind, heart and will as you reflect on the following:

I. Significance of Events

A. What are the subjective/objective facts? Events? Feelings?
B. How is God speaking through events?
C. How is God speaking through people? Authority?

II. Imitation of Jesus Christ

A. What would Jesus do in this situation? In these circumstances?
B. How does this decision help me to better serve others?
C. How does this decision affect my spiritual and personal growth?

III. Openness

A. Am I willing to let go of my prejudices?
B. Am I willing to step outside my preconceived plan?
C. Am I willing to give up control?
D. Am I willing to accept a "yes" or a "no"?

If you would like some Scripture passages to use for your reflection, here are some suggestions:

Psalm 119: 1-16
Matthew 5: 3-12
1 Corinthians 13: 1-13

IV. The Decision

After you have taken time to reflect, make your decision—and then follow it with a consideration of these questions:

A.Is the decision reasonably clear?
B. Is it rooted in peace?
C. Is the decision just?
D. Is the decision compassionate?
E. If these conditions are met, ACT...and do not look back.
F. If there is not reasonable certainty, it is not time to decide.

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