Discerning Heart

Integrating the wisdom of Christian tradition andpsychological findings oneffective decision-making, this book presents a view of Christian discernment that honorsthe body-spirit unity of the person and the broad and mysterious ways we can be led bythe spirit of God in our life-choices.Going beyond discernment skills and concrete practices, this book presents a coherenttheoretical understanding of discernment that grounds the many spiritual practices usedby Christians today. By providing a broad and inclusive understanding of the multipleways God can provide guidance to individuals, this book helps individuals to honor theunique and idiosyncratic way that they receive divine guidance, as well as provides guidelinesthat guard against possible self-deception and personal blind-spots.While including anecdotal accounts and practical elements of Christian discernment,this book provides a conceptual understanding of discernment that will be helpful forthose training to be professional ministers, pastors, priests, religious counselors, and spiritual directors. It is unique in applying Christian tradition and contemporary psychological insights to the process of discernment.†