Spiritual Practices Part 7
October 5, 2026
One of the most challenging times we face is when we must choose the best course of action but, for some reason, cannot decide. Perhaps one choice may negatively affect someone else or require a great sacrifice on our part. Maybe we would lose face or be forced to accept a reality we have long denied. When a decision carries such consequences, we must approach it with the utmost care.
This is when the spiritually oriented person may enter a period of discernment—a time intentionally set aside to grapple with the matter, consider the choices carefully, and listen for guidance. There is no prescribed length of time for discernment. That is up to the discerner. Yet, in my own life and in the lives of many people with whom I have spoken, there often comes a sense in us when the period of discernment is nearing its end. Gradually, the answer begins to emerge. Discernment can become a spiritual practice all its own.
In discernment, we sift through the material life presents. The word discern comes from roots meaning “to separate” or “to sift.” We become attentive to possible messages in what we hear, in the people with whom we speak, and in the things we read. We are more open than usual because we are consciously receiving whatever information may help the right decision rise to the surface. We may become attentive to signs in nature, synchronicities, and meaningful coincidences. We may even become more sensitive to our body’s reactions to stimuli, feelings and physical sensations.
As we sift through the physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions related to our decision, what truly matters becomes more evident, while what does not apply can be set aside. Discernment is therefore not merely a mental exercise. It is a whole-person spiritual practice—one that engages the mind, heart, body, and soul.
Discernment arises in large part from the energy represented at Point Five on the Enneagram of Soul—Sacred Wisdom. Remember we all have all nine points within our soul. Within this wondrous energy point of ours, several spiritual movements occur simultaneously. First, we are completely open to the wisdom of the universe, which is experienced as accessible, not far away or reserved for only a few. The physio-spiritual world contains knowledge and guidance for every dimension of life—from how we might reduce climate change, to how we might respond to a difficult family member; from how an organization or nation might move in a healthier direction, to which veterinarian might best care for our animals; and from how we might tend a troubled relationship, to how we should face a serious health concern. We can consult this inexhaustible wisdom.
Sacred Wisdom also calls us to become attuned to and aligned with our higher selves and with the Higher Power—and then to move through the world in that alignment. We become sensitive to the divine plan as it unfolds, allowing it, rather than the designs of the ego, to guide us.
Point Five also holds the awareness that when the soul is no longer obscured by the ego's trappings and its carefully constructed image, we become transparent to divine wisdom—the same wisdom from which the divine plan arises. In that unobstructed transparency, we can perceive and experience divine knowledge more clearly.
When these spiritual capacities work together, they form what spiritual teacher and writer A.H. Almaas refers to as Diamond Guidance. This clear and discerning wisdom, spiritually united with essential strength, becomes a powerful inner guide for our decisions. We may not receive the answer quickly or in the form we expected. Yet, if we remain open, attentive, and willing to relinquish the ego’s preferred outcome, the wisest path will gradually reveal itself.
Spiritual Practice
Whatever decision or course of action you wish to move forward on, simply enter a period of discernment as described above. Notice how, by dedicating your senses to taking in whatever knowledge comes your way, however it comes, you are creating a different state of consciousness regarding your dilemma. Notice how the import of the issue softens in light of the new intuitions, impressions, and information you are absorbing. How does the resolution emerge?
Inquiry
What are some ways you have taken in the ever-present wisdom of the universe? Might these ways be considered some of your spiritual practices?
Prayer
Dear God,
Help my unbelief that all I need to know is right there for my embrace when I need to know it.
Amen
