Discernment

[Dan T]

Papa please bless this person with a good job and continue slowly from there Amen

 

[Chrysostom]

You feel overwhelmed because you allow too many thorns to grow in the soil of your heart. Career, money, the shape of your future, these very worries choke the word and darken the understanding, just as a ship is swamped when the billows rise and no cargo is cast overboard. You must first burn up these thorns. Strip yourself of superfluous fears and examine what truly is necessary. God gave us skill to supply our needs, not to chase after vain display or endless accumulation. Most of what we call career ambition is nothing but luxury dressed in honest labor, and luxury always breeds anxiety. Cut away every excess desire, and your mind will grow quiet enough to hear the Master’s voice.

Do not be afraid to seek counsel from many. Physicians of the soul do not overwhelm the sick with rival opinions; one Teacher speaks in all, Christ himself. Seek out those who have already learned to live by necessary things, and let their words uproot what chokes you. Then do the small duty nearest your hand, just as Paul gathered sticks for the fire without fretting over tomorrow. He did his part and trusted God with the rest. So you, set your heart on the imperishable crown, and the perishable things will find their proper place. The sea is not yours to command, but the One who walks on its waves holds your little vessel and will bring it safe to harbor.