What is Spiritual Direction?

“Even when their paths wind through the dark valley of tears, they dig deep to find a pleasant pool where others find only pain.”- Ps. 84: 6-7 (TPT)

How are you and God getting along these days? These last few years? Really? Has it been dry? Have you been obediently plugging away in bible study and prayer but not experiencing the overflowing of your cup that Psalm 23 speaks of? Or have you given up completely on that time because all you hear is silence ?

Do you lack deep peace as you walk into your days? When you hear “those” verses about your true identity in Christ do you really believe them or do you “know you should” but you just aren’t sure how?

Has God been silent with you for a season? A year? A few years? Has shame kept you from talking about these things?

You’re not alone. Nor should you be alone in seasons walking through the “Valley of Tears”. God made us for community; to lift each other up, encourage each other, spur each other on, even sit and rest in silence together. We are meant for each other – “it wasn’t good to be alone”. But why do we pull away in the deepest reality of our existence? Is it that shame sits there? Is it somehow our fault, our sin that is to blame for our lack of connection with God or being in the place of Tears? The enemy wants us to think so, that way we hide even more from the very thing that could keeps us moving forward and digging in deeper, community.

Meeting with a Spiritual Director means having a companion to walk with you on this road. Spiritual Direction creates space in your life to listen deeply to your heart and mind, without judgement. Space to listen together about what God is doing in you and what He is quietly speaking. In this space He directs both of our attention to the deeper longings and fears of your soul and speaks words like flowing springs in an arid and dark place. Words that you’re longing to hear. Words that can transform your thoughts and change how you show up to your life.

What does a session look like?

We will start off a session with creating space for you and God. Allowing your thoughts to settle and focus is essential to allow God to distill out what he has for you in that particular session. Times of listening together in silence are not uncommon. I may ask questions to help you listen more deeply. We may pray aloud, we may not. Many people cry in sessions, which is evidence that God is speaking right to the core of the thoughts, worries, questions of their heart. After an hour or so we will close.

Typically sessions are monthly unless you desire more support in a particularly challenging season.

Confidentiality

Spiritual directors are ethically bound to confidentiality. This ensures that Directee’s feel safe and are able to share their deepest feelings and most important life experiences. There are, however, some important exceptions to keep in mind.

• If a directee is threatening serious bodily harm to another person or persons, I must notify the police and the intended victim.
• If a directee is in danger of committing suicide, I will make every effort to get that directee to safety

Fees

 If you want and need this service but cannot afford it, some spiritual directors are supported by orders or patrons and do not charge any fees. To find these directors, call any religious order or retreat center.