Greetings Mt. Vernon in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, 

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. Romans 8:14 

There is a difference between “I have decided what to do vs. I have discerned what to do.” Decisions are made based on our own reasoning and intellect. Discernment is a gift from God. Discernment requires prayer, reaching after God, waiting and following the way God calls us. Discerning God’s will as a community requires each member bring to the group their skills and passions for seeking God’s leading. We must all trust in the leadership of Christ, that Christ still leads His church. As we gather for worship, prayer and sharing our testimonies, there is a growing trust in one another. We grow in our identity as the body of Christ in the world. We are in this world but not of it. Discerning God’s will for our church will require listening to one another with grace and patience. Finally, discernment as a community requires willingness. It requires a willingness to wait upon the Spirit of God and the willingness to open ourselves fully to His leading. 

Adapted from The Way of Discernment Companions in Christ 

Be Richly Blessed! 

Pastor Deborah Giles