February 25: Your Life is Guided by God
If something comes towards you in grace and can pass through you and towards others with grace, you can trust it as the voice of God. Richard Rohr
Gregg’s Reflection
Over the years, I’ve learned that walking in God’s presence is not about adding more prayers to my day — as Henri Nouwen tells us, it’s about living in a way where everything becomes prayer. To walk with God means that all our desires, thoughts, and actions are constantly shaped by Him, so that every sight, sound, and interaction points us back to His heart.
This kind of life requires slowing down enough to listen — really listen — for God’s voice within. In my younger years, I often assumed guidance would come in big, dramatic signs. But more often, it comes in a whisper, in subtle nudges, or through the people God sends into our path who can be ‘living signposts.’
Discernment is not just about making the “right” choice in the moment; it’s about faithfully listening for God’s love and direction so that our lives align with His calling. It’s also about remembering that we are part of something much bigger — God’s great work of renewal and redemption in the world.
Scripture
If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given to you.
James 1:5
Ancient Quotes
In the beginning, there is struggle and a lot of work for those who come near to God. But, after that, there is indescribable joy. It is just like building a fire: at first it’s smoky and your eyes water, but later you get the desired result. Thus we ought to light the divine fire in ourselves with tears and effort.
Amma Syncletica, Desert Wisdom, p. xii–xiii
Modern Quotes
To walk in the presence of the Lord means to move forward in life in such a way that all our desires, thoughts, and actions are constantly guided by him… The essence is to be established in the remembrance of God, and to walk in his presence.
Henri Nouwen, Nouwen Society Daily Devotion, 1/23/23
Listen to your heart. It’s there that Jesus speaks most intimately to you… His voice is an unassuming voice, very nearly a whisper, the voice of a gentle love.
Henri Nouwen, Nouwen Society Daily Devotion, 5/18/21
Discernment is faithful living and listening to God’s love and direction so that we can fulfill our individual calling and shared mission.
Henri Nouwen, Discernment, p. 3
If something comes towards you in grace and can pass through you and towards others with grace, you can trust it as the voice of God.
Richard Rohr, The Universal Christ, p. 88
Journaling Prompts
- When in your life have you most clearly sensed God’s guidance? How did you recognize it?
- Where in your current life could you slow down and listen more attentively for God’s “still, small voice”?
- Who in your life has been a “living signpost” pointing you toward God?
- What small, quiet signs of God’s presence might you be overlooking right now?
- If you believed fully that God has a special role for you to fulfill, how would it change the way you live this week?
Discerning God’s will is no easy task. Much of my coaching work with pastors is helping them with discernment. Yet, it is eminently doable if you root yourself in deeper spiritual practices
👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 8 Reflection: Discerning God’s Will