5 TIPS FOR LEARNING Spiritual Discernment?

Learning spiritual discernment was one of the first things I learned because it was yelled at me in a dream by a room full of people and my recently passed mother. I didn’t understand what that meant for me then, but I knew it was essential to the path I was about to embark on. Turns out it was one of the most important things I could have learned. Because it helped me be uniquely me. 

So What is it?

So let’s start with the basics, and trust me, you’re gonna wanna hear this.

Spiritual discernment is the ability to identify and interpret spiritual truths and values and make wise decisions based on those understandings. It involves using faith and reason to examine any situation or circumstance and determine right and wrong, helpful or harmful, and true or false. Spiritual discernment is a vital tool for anyone seeking to learn from a teacher, peers, or anything you are choosing to learn about spirituality from.

What I’ve Learned So Far

The way I went about learning discernment on my path is straightforward. I had a hard time finding this information online because it is geared toward Christianity when you look it up online. I wasn’t trying to put a religious overtone to this because I wasn’t even sure what my path was then.

So, let me save you countless Google searches right here. This is how I learned what discernment was all about. I take what resonates with me from mentors, books, podcasts, and even friends or family’s beliefs. Suppose my internal compass and own personal experiences can validate the truth in someone else teachings or ideas. In that case, I sit with it for a bit and either adopt it and see how it fits for me, or I trash it. Just because you don’t resonate with 5% or even 50% of someone else’s beliefs doesn’t mean you didn’t find value in the other % you did resonate with.

“Take what you want and leave the rest sitting where you found it.” This is the beauty of spiritual discernment. It’s the ability to recognize your truth in others and use it as a tool for spiritual growth. It empowers you to create a path that is uniquely your own and take the lessons, teachings, beliefs, and texts of others and use them to enhance your journey. Through spiritual discernment, you can take the wisdom and knowledge of others, filter it through your own truth, and gain a deeper understanding of your own spiritual journey.

Let’s see what that looks like…

For example, suppose a teacher speaks about the importance of meditating every day, and it does not fit into your lifestyle. In that case, you may instead practice meditation a few times a week or explore other ways of connecting with your spirituality. Discernment is used in this example to find a balance between what is being taught and what works best for you as an individual.

Another example would be if your teacher or mentor believes and teaches with science involved in some way (like me, this was the basis of my spirituality and development), but that doesn’t resonate with you, that’s okay! Move on to the next lesson or blog post and blur that out of your mind and take what you want. You can still find value in their teaching and hold your own beliefs.

Finding Your Own Truth

This process can be powerful and starts with an open heart, an open mind, and a willingness to learn. Ultimately, spiritual discernment is about taking responsibility for your own spiritual growth and learning. It recognizes that no one else can do this for you and that it’s up to you to take what resonates with your spirit and use it to grow and learn. It’s the key to unlocking your true spiritual potential and uncovering your truth.

Becoming Your Authentic Self with Discernment

Many people struggle with being their true selves. But what exactly does it mean to be authentic? Your authentic self combines your unique values, beliefs, and personality traits that make you who you are. It’s about being true to yourself and not someone else’s idea of who you should be.

It’s important to note that becoming authentic is a journey, not a destination. You may face external and internal obstacles, but don’t let that discourage you. Remember that there is no one right way to live authentically. It’s about discovering what feels right and true for you.

To help you on your journey toward authenticity, here are a couple of exercises you can try:

1. Values Reflection: Take some time to reflect on what values are most important to you. Write them down and consider how to incorporate them into your daily life. Remember that it’s okay if your values change over time.
2. Self-Expression: Choose an art form or activity that allows you to express yourself freely. This could be writing, painting, dancing, or anything that resonates with you. Spend time exploring your creativity and notice how it feels to express yourself without fear of judgment.
3. Mindful Breathing: You can find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed or do it in the midst of whatever you’re doing, as long as you can do it safely. Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Focus on your breath as it comes into your body and out of your body. Let go of any thoughts or distractions and be present with your breath for a few minutes. Thoughts are going to pop in, just let them pass and don’t follow them. If you do, just clear your mind again and focus on your breathing.
4. Positive Self-Talk: Pay attention to your inner dialogue throughout the day. When you notice negative self-talk, reframe the thought into a positive one. For example, instead of saying, “I’m not good enough,” try saying, “I am capable and worthy.”
5. Authentic Actions: Think of one action that aligns with your authentic self. This could be having a difficult conversation, setting boundaries, or pursuing a passion project. Take that action and notice how acting by your true self feels.

Becoming your authentic self requires courage, vulnerability, and self-compassion. But remember that the reward is a more prosperous, more fulfilling life. You deserve to live authentically and fully. Keep listening to your inner voice and trusting the journey.

Take the time to explore it and see how it can help you uncover your own truth.

For more on how to define your personal spirituality click here.

Remember to filter it through your truth first, sit with it and see if it has a place in your beliefs. That’s what it is all about, learning your own opinions and building a solid foundation of those inner truths.

Happy Hearting 🧡 Leave me a comment below if you found this helpful.