In the busyness of our lives, it can be challenging to sit down in silence. When we pray, we tend to do all the talking. However, how many times do you stop and sit in silence? Jamilano emphasizes the importance of removing all distractions and giving God our full attention. She says, “When we are silent, we acknowledge God’s presence, and we give him the opportunity to respond to our prayers” and adds that “silence amplifies our inner voice.” This inner voice, Jamilano explains, is the Holy Spirit which, when we spend moments in silence, helps us to begin to notice where the Holy Spirit is calling us and realize what God is calling us to do.
Tradition
In the book, Catholic tradition is defined as, “all the practices that have been given to us by our predecessors through apostolic succession,” including all the prayers and teachings that unite Catholics. Therefore, Jamilano makes the point that the Mass, the sacraments, and our traditional prayers are all ways in which God can speak to us.
Nontraditional Means
Jamilano describes nontraditional means as “the unexpected ways God chooses to speak to us.” Examples include other people, music, a tv show or movie, art, nature, and even in the ordinary tasks of the day.
How to Discern
Now that we are familiar with the different ways in which we can hear God’s voice speak to us, the process of discerning becomes possible.
“Discernment is a process of uncovering God’s will about a significant decision in our life,” she defines in the book. These are the five tips she offers for discernment.
Spend time in sacred silence
Allowing yourself to spend time in the presence of the Lord and simply listen “enables us to confront the inner stirrings of our hearts.”
Seek wisdom
(Story continues below)
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
According to the author, some of the best sources include scripture, tradition, nature, people, and nontraditional means.
Listen to your heart
Reflect on your several choices, pray, and allow your heart to lead you.
Test the call
Readers are encouraged to “take a leap of faith and live out the call” after spending time in prayer, seeking wisdom and listening to your heart.
Choose love