The final theme of Gaudete et Exsultate will be one dear to those even casually familiar with Ignatian Spirituality. Discernment will occupy our attention for the next several days here. The question we all want to ask, at one time or another:
166. How can we know if something comes from the Holy Spirit or if it stems from the spirit of the world or the spirit of the devil?
Saint Ignatius of Loyola is not the only spiritual master available to help us answer this. But he is a most reliable guide. We can assume Pope Francis finds this to be so.
The only way is through discernment, which calls for something more than intelligence or common sense. It is a gift which we must implore. If we ask with confidence that the Holy Spirit grant us this gift, and then seek to develop it through prayer, reflection, reading and good counsel, then surely we will grow in this spiritual endowment.
You can check the full document Gaudete et Exsultate on the Vatican website.
Catholic Sensibility 