The Discerning Heart: Exploring the Christian Path

by Wilkie Au, Noreen Cannon Au

Integrating the wisdom of Christian tradition and psychological findings on effective decision-making, this book presents a view of Christian discernment that honors the body-spirit unity of the person and the broad and mysterious ways we can be led by the spirit of God in our life-choices. Going beyond discernment skills and concrete practices, this book presents a coherent theoretical understanding of discernment that grounds the many spiritual practices used by Christians today. By providing a broad and inclusive understanding of the multiple ways God can provide guidance to individuals, this book helps individuals to honor the unique and idiosyncratic way that they receive divine guidance, as well as provides guidelines that 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 for those 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. †

Genres: Spirituality, Theology

192 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2006

Reviews

[Jodie Pine]

I found this book to be very insightful on the topic of discernment, especially the chapters on Refining the Acoustics of the Heart, Images of God and Discernment, and Desires and Discernment. There are also some excellent exercises, at the end of the chapters, to practice and explore these ideas that really resonated with me.

[Scott R. See]

I really enjoyed reading this book. It offers practical insights on living a contemplative life specifically as it relates to integrating your body-soul-mind-heart. At the end of each chapter there is an opportunity for further personal reflection through guided questions related to that chapter. If you’re interested in discernment I highly recommend this book.

[Andrea]

What an amazing read if you're looking for ways to help understand discernment. I highly recommend it!

[Rod White]

Nice book about making decisions. They provide several practical ways to look at things and keep it deep. The Aus like their psychology, and I generally do, too. Their own stories of growth are quite interesting.

[Matt Root]

This is a very beautiful and helpful book, deeply rooted in tradition, informed by contemporary insights, and reaching forward into the possibilities of the future. I couldn't recommend it more highly for anyone seeking to find their best path for being in the world.

[Patti Clement]

I use this book all the time! It is an excellent book for any Christian.