The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius by George E. Ganss, SJ
Discerning the Will of God by Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V.
First mode: Clarity Beyond Doubt
Certitude
Deep Peace
Joyous Outlook
Confidence
Secure Sense
Freedom
Joy
Delight
Freedom from Doubt
Recognize and Act:
What was specifically shown
Was there a clear attraction and drawing of the will
Is it truly impossible to doubt
Has it been discussed with a spiritual director
Have I, in receipt of this gift, acted upon it
Second mode: Attraction of the Heart
Deep Devotion and Tears
Peace in my Heart
Consolation or Desolation
Patterns in Consolation
Patterns in Desolation
Does this make me the most joyful
Sufficient clarity and understanding thru experiences
Which am I most drawn too
Third mode: Majority of Reasons
First Way -
1st Point: Question -Place the thing before me which I wish to make a decision about
2nd Point: Disposition - Have an equal detachment from both, empty of passion or fixed inclination, flexible and ready to go either direction. Be in equilibrium, ready to follow whatever I perceive to be more for the glory and praise of God and the salvation of my soul
3rd Point: Petition - Pray that God be pleased to move my will and place in my soul what I ought to do in this matter that would bring God more praise and glory. For the grace of a mind that sees clearly and a will to choose faithfully for God’s praise and glory.
4th Point: Reasons - What are the Spiritual and faith-based advantages and disadvantages for the praise of God and for the salvation of my soul. Consider and document the strengths and weaknesses of each.
5th Point: Choose - Judge the reasons, which one elevates my soul, gives me tranquility, joy, and peace more
6th Point: Confirmation - Bring the decision to God and ask that he confirm the choice
Second Way -
1st Rule: Disposition - Does the love that moves me and causes me to choose descend from above, from the love of God, and solely for the sake of my Creator and Lord?
2nd Rule: Consider Another - If someone came to me with the same choice that I didn’t know, how would I counsel them and which option would I steer them towards? Distance yourself from the decision.
3rd Rule: End of Life - Consider myself at the end of my life near death, what choice would I have wished I made at this present time?
4th Rule: Eternity - See myself on judgment day and consider how I will wish to have chosen in this present discernment Which one is more loving towards God, who loves me infinity? Am I loving him back without reservation?
Confirmation - Once the choice has been made, seek to get confirmation from God. Pray before God, offering him the choice so that the Lord may be pleased to receive and confirm it.
Questions to Consider:
Have I done my research on the options? Do I have all the relevant data?
Am I beginning my discernment from a tranquil time, not one of turmoil or unrest?
Have I renewed my desire and awareness to promote God’s greater glory in human hearts and to progress toward the joy of eternal communion with God?
Am I spiritually free and open to either option?
Have I sought God’s help in prayer before considering the advantages and disadvantages?
Are the reasons faith-based on my list for the greater glory of God?
Does one choice have a more favorable reason?
Have I shared the process with a spiritual director?
Having chosen an option, have I brought the choice to God for confirmation, and have I received one?
