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Discernment Resource

Developed by Bethany Association

Bethany Association recognizes the need to help young women discern their state of life well; to make a conscious choice on whether they will pursue married life, living single for the Lord, or staying single for various reasons.  We developed this resource to serve as a tool to accompany these young women in their discernment journey and enable them to get know themselves better and grow in their knowledge of who God is in their lives. 

 

We believe that if women were given the right tool at the right time, they would be able to discover God’s will for their lives and be set on the path of the fullness of life God has in store for them. If you are interested in this resource, you can contact any Bethany sister that you know or email us at bethany@bethanyassociation.org.

Introduction

The Bethany Discernment Resource is designed to help young women prayerfully and intentionally discern their state of life—whether marriage, living single for the Lord, or remaining single by circumstance. Rooted in Scripture and Christian tradition, this guide provides a structured approach to reflection, prayer, and pastoral guidance in making this important life decision.
 

Through nine key topics, the guide walks you through understanding God’s call, growing in self-knowledge, deepening your relationship with the Lord, and making a decision with clarity and peace. Each topic includes:

  • Biblical reflections to meditate on

  • Guiding questions for self-examination

  • Encouragement to seek pastoral support

  • Practical steps for moving forward

This discernment process is not about making an immediate or final decision but about seeking God’s direction with openness and trust. It can be used individually or alongside a pastoral leader who provides support and insight throughout the journey.

Whether you are just beginning to ask questions about your future or seeking confirmation of a decision already forming in your heart, this guide will help you prayerfully and confidently discern where God is leading you.

How to Use the Discernment Resource

This resource is designed to help you prayerfully and intentionally discern your state of life—whether marriage, living single for the Lord, or remaining single by circumstance. It provides a structured process of reflection, prayer, and pastoral guidance to help you seek God’s will with clarity and peace.

1. Set Aside a Focused Discernment Period
  • Work with your pastoral leader to determine when to begin your discernment, typically 6-12 months.

  • Choose a season of life when you can dedicate time for reflection and prayer.

  • Commit to a non-dating period to fully focus on listening to God’s call.

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Topics Covered in the Disccernment Resource

Listed below are the topics covered in the Discernment Resource, along with their descriptions. They outline what you will discover as you go through this discernment journey with clarity and confidence. Each topic will guide you through prayer, reflection, and pastoral guidance.

Introduction

Seeking God for Your Life

Every Christian is called to love God with their whole heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mat 22:37). As members of the SOS, we are invited to live radically for Him, whether through marriage or living single for the Lord. This discernment resource is designed to help you explore your vocation and discover how you can best love and serve God with your life.

Topic 2

Speak Lord, Your Servant is Listening

What if God has been speaking to you all along, but you just needed to tune in? This topic invites you to slow down, quiet your heart, and recognize the many ways God is already reaching out to you—through Scripture, prayer, creation, and even the people around you. As you learn to listen more deeply, you’ll discover how His voice can guide your discernment and transform your relationship with Him.

Topic 4

Getting to Know Yourself

Have you ever considered that knowing yourself deeply could be the key to discerning your vocation? This topic invites you to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, and unique qualities, helping you see where you may thrive in life. As you take time for honest self-discovery, you’ll grow in clarity, confidence, and openness to the path God has designed just for you.

Topic 6

How Can You Best Love and Serve the Lord?

What kind of life will allow you to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength? In this topic, you’ll reflect on how your vocation is meant to be a concrete expression of love and service to Him. As you explore both marriage and living single for the Lord, you’ll gain insight into your unique calling and consider how your gifts, desires, and life circumstances align with God’s plan for you.

Topic 8

Making an Initial Decision

Are you ready to take a step forward in your discernment? This topic helps you reflect on where God may be leading you—toward openness to marriage, a deeper exploration of living single for the Lord, or a time of waiting for greater clarity. Through prayer, reflection, and wise counsel, you’ll gain confidence in making an initial decision, trusting that God will continue to guide you as you move forward.

Topic 1

Right Disposition of Heart: Trusting in the Love of God

What if true freedom in discernment comes from fully trusting God’s love for you? As you explore this topic, you’ll dive into what it means to let go of fear, surrender expectations, and open your heart to His plans. Through prayer and reflection, you’ll discover how knowing God deeply and trusting Him completely can lead to clarity, confidence, and a greater sense of purpose.

Topic 3

God’s Call to You

Could your vocation be more than just a decision, but a personal invitation from God? In this topic, you’ll reflect on how He speaks uniquely to you—through desires, experiences, and the people around you. As you listen for His voice, you’ll grow in confidence to respond with trust and freedom, knowing He is drawing you closer to Himself.

Topic 5

Purity of Heart

What does it mean to love with a pure heart, whether in marriage or in a life fully given to God? This topic invites you to reflect on how purity is more than just avoiding sin—it’s about learning to love as Christ loves, with integrity, freedom, and generosity. As you explore the call to chastity and self-gift, you’ll discover how embracing purity can deepen your relationships, strengthen your vocation, and draw you closer to God.

Topic 7

How and Where to Live Your Life for the Glory of God

Have you considered that where and how you live could shape the way you love and serve God? This topic invites you to reflect on the environment, community, and calling that will help you thrive in your vocation. As you discern your path, you’ll explore how your gifts, desires, and circumstances align with God’s greater plan for you—one that leads to a full and purposeful life in His glory.

Topic 9

Moving Forward

What are the next steps in living out your vocation? This topic helps you consider how to practically move toward marriage or living single for the Lord with clarity and confidence. Whether you are opening yourself to dating and courtship or exploring a life fully dedicated to God, you’ll be guided in taking concrete steps with the support of pastoral leaders, community, and prayer. Trust that God will continue to lead you as you embrace His call.

Step-by-Step Process for Going Through a Topic

This resource is designed to help you prayerfully and intentionally discern your vocation. Following a structured approach will ensure a thoughtful, prayerful, and Spirit-led journey. Take your time, stay open to God’s leading, and trust that He will guide you.

1. Begin with Prayer

Set aside quiet time, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, and open your heart to God’s will.

2. Read the Topic

Go through the material carefully, noting key insights and anything that challenges or resonates with you.

3. Meditate on Scripture

Reflect on the provided Bible passages, asking what God is revealing to you. Write down any key takeaways.

4. Answer Reflection Questions

Thoughtfully journal your responses, being honest about your desires, fears, and uncertainties.

5. Discuss with Your Pastoral Leader

Share your insights, receive guidance, and be open to new perspectives.

6. Take Your Time

Spend at least 2-4 weeks on each topic, revisiting areas where you need deeper clarity.

7. Surrender the Process to God

End with prayer, entrusting your discernment to Him with faith and trust.

Initial Decision

If you need more information about this discernment resource, reach out to your mentor/pastoral leader or email us at bethany@bethanyassociation.org

ABOUT US

We are an international, ecumenical association of Women Living Single for the Lord (LSFL) in the Sword of the Spirit

CONTACT INFO

​4288 Cloverlane Dr.,

Ypsilanti, MI 48197

Unites States

bethany@bethanyassociation.org

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