TF S03 | E18| In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld respond to a thoughtful question from Grade 9–10 students at Miller High School: How can I know when God is talking to me? Drawing on the spiritual wisdom of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the conversation explores Christian discernment through self-awareness, honesty, and paying attention to the movements of the heart over time. They explain the difference between spiritual consolation and desolation, clarifying that these are not simply good or bad feelings, but experiences related to freedom, clarity, hope, and closeness to God. The episode offers practical guidance on creating space to hear God’s voice through silence, prayer, spiritual reading, Mass, confession, adoration, and the daily Examen, while cautioning against making major decisions during times of desolation. Listeners are encouraged to trust that God’s voice often sounds like truth spoken within, to remain grounded in Church teaching, and to grow patiently in freedom and faith as God continues to shape their spiritual lives. 00:19 Podcast Welcome 03:22 Question God Speaking 03:46 Ignatius Discernment Basics 05:05 Silence and Self Awareness 05:58 Ignatius Story and Boredom 08:21 Consolation vs Dopamine Crash 10:40 Examen and Honest Reflection 12:02 True Voice vs False Voice 15:59 Church and Moral Guardrails 18:31 Crime and Punishment Example 20:52 Everyday Choices and Consolation 21:45 Fruits Of The Spirit 22:32 Consolation Versus Desolation 23:53 Do Not Decide Desolate 24:35 Dad Story And Space 27:58 Lies Reduce Your Options 29:03 Temporary States And Clarity 31:44 Many Good Choices 33:42 Discernment In Sacraments 36:13 Garden Conditions For Growth 38:05 God Changes Our Minds 38:44 Closing Thanks And Blessing