Topic: How do I discern God's will for me?

Date originally posted: March 27, 2002

Source of this posting: Moderator response to emailed question

Moderator who originally posted this source: B. Egan

Question: Dear Fr, I am facing a very difficult situation right now. Next July, I am going for an exchange program to Norway. The problem is that my God mother said that he  ot a prompting from God that my intention of going is not pure and my exchange is not from God. On the other hand, I only know that my intention going is just to gain more experience and there are no bad intentions within. In addition, my parents agree with my decision of taking this exchange program and they consider it to be something good for me.  Right now I am very confuse on whether I should go for it or not. The problem is getting worse when the university which I am in right now have considered me to be committed to go and if I am to withdraw then it should go trough a difficult procedure.  Right now what I really want is to know what is God's will for me. If the Lord doesn't want me to take this exchange program then I will just let it go but the thing is that I don't really know what the Lord wants.  At first I just think if the Lord doesn't want me to go, He could just fail this exchange program and I'm sure it will safe me a lot of trouble in figuring out what to do. I really want to please God and I also know that His plans are good for me but I just don't know what He wants me to do.  I really hope that you could advise me on what to do. In addition, I really do ask your favor to pray for me so that The Lord would show me His will and if possible to ask Him on what should I do.  Thank you for all your help and God bless you.

Answer: 

I am sorry that you are having such a difficult time right now.  Unfortunately I cannot tell you what God's will is for you.  And it would be irresponsible for me to try to do so. 

I find it interesting that both you and your parents think that the exchange program is a good idea, but your Godmother doesn't.  Did she specify what her concerns were?  Why exactly does she think you want to go?  My guess is that you and your parents know YOU rather well - and trust your judgment.  If only one person has an issue with your decision, perhaps she isn't seeing the situation clearly.  Assuming that your reasons for being a part of this exchange program are good and healthy, I would hope that you wouldn't let one person's disapproval hold you back from what could be a wonderful adventure. 

It sounds like you have thought over this decision in great detail.  If not, now would be the time to do so.  Perhaps there is a priest or campus minister at your university who knows you and would be better suited to discuss your situation with you.  Because I do not know you, nor all the factors that are at play, I am unable to advise you any further.  But I WILL pray for you and your decision-making process.