THE EDITOR: Singles for Christ held a Day of Discernment for youths and young adults and I just wanted to share a couple of thoughts on what I learnt. Discerning the will of God is the best thing that we can do with our lives as children of God.

We must realise that God's will for our lives does not change. He gives us what is perfect. God came that we may have life and have it abundantly. And for some of us God's will does not appear as a big billboard flashing across the sky.

Sometimes it is difficult to recognise God's will for our lives; because our hearts tell us one thing and God's will tells us another. Here is where the journey becomes a challenge.

Once we recognise this journey of faith we need to prepare ourselves for the journey. How do we do this?

Firstly, we need to spend time in prayer, talking to God from the heart. Spend time listening to his voice and seeking his face through scriptures; for example Ps 115:3, Ps 135:5-6, Wisdom 9: 9-12 and 12:18, Romans 8: 26-27.

We must be motivated to live out the scriptures in everything we do. The Holy Bible gives us examples of people who journeyed through faith to accomplish God's will for their lives; for example Jonah, Moses, Abraham, Paul and Mary the Mother of Jesus.

Secondly, seek the advice of a Spiritual Director someone who lives out the word of God. Thirdly, we must partake of the sacraments of reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist and most importantly use our time wisely spending time giving service to God and his people.

Elisa Russell via e-mail