When Your Desires and God’s Plans Are Different

Just because you desire something deeply doesn’t mean it’s God’s plans for you. Sometimes our desires and God’s will are different. Our desires are not predictors of the future and they’re not the voice of God. We are supposed to tend to our desires and discern what is being revealed through them, but letting them dictate your path in life is not wise.
Especially when it comes to romantic relationships, we tend to favor the decisions that would give us our desire. If the person you desire keeps coming up in prayer, it’s because you keep bringing him or her up. Don’t fool yourself. At the heart of this desire is probably a good longing for marriage and a family. Acknowledging the desire for what it is will help you make a more clear-headed decision regarding it.
You may also have a desire to pursue a certain career path. If you want to sing, for example, do you want to spend every day singing and live the life of a singer? When you acknowledge the realistic lifestyle your dream job would entail, it often brings sobriety to your desire. If the desire still does not subside, don’t automatically assume it’s because it must be your destiny. Examine your past, your conscience, and the things that have influenced you. Examine the things that may have brought about this desire. This examination will teach you valuable things about yourself.
Our desire for goodness and holiness is a good thing. We have these desires so we can learn more about what’s deepest in our hearts. So next time one of your recurring desires come back, go deeper and ask yourself, “What does this desire really reveal about me? What do I really want at the very core of it?” Bring it to prayer and God will reveal something very profound, as he has often been known to do.
MORE FROM ASCENSION
Ascension’s main website: ascensionpress.com
Ascension Media: media.ascensio...
The Great Adventure Bible: ascensionpress...
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: / ascensionpress
Twitter: / ascensionpress
LinkedIn: / ascension-press
Instagram: / ascensionpress
Subscribe: / ascensionpresents

[@skylarhiggs4570]

This is a hard pill to swallow, however, convenient timing as always

[@mandauefoama8845]

Same here. I'm experiencing the same thing and commented it.

[@kjosemaria9373]

so true!

[@michaelberes4153]

When we make detailed plans and chase desires --- God just smiles.

[@pibly7784]

Great statement. 👍

[@DarkAngel-cj6sx]

True.

[@MariaPullatt]

"Because you keep bringing him up" ugh why do you have to call me out like that?! 😭

[@panda22518]

same sis

[@mahlakomohlala7012]

That was my exact reaction!

[@almapimentel2283]

i feel you sis!!! 😭😭

[@terriblycleverchannelname5620]

Same

[@davidlawrence8085]

Haha....yeah !

[@filipkarwowski6510]

I think a nice, concise way to simplify it is this: Whatever you desire, discern and strive to do, place Jesus at the center of it all. In the end, the vocation you pursue isn’t as important as its end goal; Because all we do is for the glory of God and so that we may be reunited with him. God will be with you through it all 👍🏻

[@andrewtalbot1707]

Well said! Thank you!

[@blaiserebeiro7181]

Does that mean we can choose a wrong vocation??

[@cowwhisperer8927]

look up Mike Popovich Ministries

[@larrylim8050]

@blaiserebeiro7181 yes. Mistakes will always be there because we imperfect. God knows we'll make mistakes. Focus on God's will. Understand your religion well. Pray, fast, do acts, thoughts etc of charity as part of your discernment process. Live a holy life. Offer suffering with love for God. Love others equally as you love yourself. Love and pray for your enemies. Etc etc etc.. then you'll still make mistakes, even in being in the wrong vocation. But all that matters is your heart's intention and the action... all geared towards search for God's will. Not trying to preach and teach. Just caring for a sibling in God.

[@TheRandynorris]

God is terrible at planning. If he worked for a travel agency people would be lost. God... ok I booked your vacation. Me. To where? God... it's a secret but your gonna love it. Me.. ok when? God... don't worry about it it'll be great. Me... ookay. But I need to make sure I'm free to go. God... I'll let you know when and be sure you follow the itinerary to the T. Cause if your don't your gonna miss out on a great time. And by the way it's nonrefundable...

[@freshbrewedasmr3378]

I’ve been wanting to be a consecrated virgin since 13 years ago when Jesus Hinself told me I would be consecrated to Him and visit the Holy Land. I did end up visiting the Holy Land 3 years ago, and I’ve been trying to convince the bishop to let me become a consecrated virgin. It’s been a hard struggle, a purgatory on earth, because I have to wait to get permission to become a consecrated virgin when Jesus Himself told me I would be one. And whenever I’m afraid this desire comes from me and not from Him, He has always sent a sign to me ( a clear spiritual or physical sign) that it is His Will. Please pray for me that I may become a consecrated virgin by April 3rd (or at least very soon). God bless you all

[@joelancon7231]

May Lord Jesus, make it clear by faith, your vocation in life to live for Him, Through Him, for the sake of Love; May Mother of Chastity and Charity itself wrap you in her mantle of protection Amen. May as Christ said to you, you say to Christ, "this is my Body given up for you"

[@RanMouri82]

Hang in there! I started longing to profess vows as a nun when I was 15. After many years, through many efforts on my own to do the very counter-cultural act of discerning a religious vocation, I was turned away from several convents due to an (undiagnosed at the time) mental illness of OCD. I'm now in my late 30s and struggling at times to understand what God desires from my life. I worry that I'm not living out my life in His service. But then, by God's grace, I choose again to leave my life in His hands and pray that it may be an offering to Him, led only by His hand, while I struggle, strive, and work in this life.

[@RanMouri82]

Long story short, you are not alone! ❤💕

[@freshbrewedasmr3378]

Thank you

[@freshbrewedasmr3378]

Thank you!

[@Rob-xl7eq]

"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" -Jer 17:9

[@svetlanabarrow6026]

Speak for your own heart

[@paxcoder]

@@svetlanabarrow6026 Who are you saying this to? These are not Rob's words

[@svetlanabarrow6026]

@@paxcoder he is the one who put it here.

[@paxcoder]

@@svetlanabarrow6026 Is it not relevant? Because if it is, what does it matter who put it here? Why do you react so emotionally (no offense, but you did seem to try and belittle the man)?

[@svetlanabarrow6026]

@@paxcoder if you projecting your own emotions maybe it makes sense for you to have some deep soul searching why are you doing it. Just think about where and how you have been belittled from the day you were born to today. Rob left a comment with which I disagreed. So please do me a favour and stop twisting my disagreement into belittling. It looks like professional trolling.

[@StevenJBosch]

Please remember my sister in prayer who will be treated for oral cancer later this month.

[@templarrain2369]

I willl start my sentence with 'Unless you're Padre Pio...' from now on.

[@gillysparrowlegs]

I got what I desired when I let go and started praying for what God's will was for me, not what MY will wanted...it's really hard to let go, but beauty is born out of humility.

[@carlosm.alfaro8006]

What was it that you desired? What did God bring to you? Im losing hope and faith, I feel as though the Lord has left me and doesn’t hear my prayers I am miserable.

[@leemaria9166]

Wow! Thank you- I'm am working on applying this

[@leemaria9166]

​@carlosm.alfaro8006 , I am praying that you receive the answer and guidance you are looking for and renew your faith in God. Please be well.

[@maryrosedoucette9483]

This has been my experience with religious life. I felt a desire for it as a young teenager, and received unfortunate advice that "any desire for such a life must be a true vocation!". So I persisted, even though the closer it got to my date of entering, I was consumed with anxiety and dread. Eventually I decided not to, and over the years have realized that I simply had a desire for holiness, a desire for a deep prayer life- not necessarily for the life of a religious Sister.

[@SicilianCuisine]

maybe more of a consecrated laywoman life rather than a nun.

[@maryrosedoucette9483]

@@SicilianCuisine perhaps that could have been my path! I am now happily married and learning how to grow my prayer life, and my trust in God, through the many, many challenges and unknowns of family life.

[@SicilianCuisine]

oh that is great! I wish you all the best then for your family life, and happy new year!

[@maritamuras8978]

So I’m late on this comment thread, but how did you know. I think I’m in a similar boat, wondering if God wants me to be a nun. However, really I just want to be holy. I still long to be married. I put off talking to someone about finding a spiritual director for ten long years because I long for marriage. I am ashamed I am not actively discerning other than a few retreats I went on over the years. 😞 Its like I’m saying, “God, I want what you want, but only if you want what I want.” When I did call for a spiritual director at my local parish, they wanted to refer me to the priest, but I did NOT want that! I go to my priest for confession, but as for revealing my deepest longing and complicated journey, I felt like I couldn’t go to a priest for that, especially since he knows me and my family. I know that’s backwards thinking because what better person than a local parish priest who is living a religious life? Still, that’s how I feel. I’d feel much more comfortable with a woman, but then I don’t know if I could speak with a head nun, either. I’d feel like she would understand my desire for marriage, but only to a point because she chose marriage. On top of it all, I am angry that God hasn’t revealed to me my vocation yet. I’m not getting any younger here. I’m 38 and fear I will be stuck in limbo land forever. I feel like time is running out to find a husband, and time is obviously running out to have children. I’ve wanted a large family for over ten years now. I wish God would just come down and say, “This is your vocation,” so I’d know. I suffer from anxiety and scrupulosity and can often get stuck in my head, so that makes it even harder to discern. I’ve gotten advice over the years through people and KZbin videos like this one. I’m not sure if this makes sense, but the advice even sometimes feels conflicting. For example, I just watched another video by Ascension Press (the sane company as this video) and it talked about how God puts desires in our hearts for a reason, but it seems like Father Mike Schmitz is giving advice that conflicts with the layperson’s opinion. Did you experience anything similar on your journey? How did you ease your fears? Help would be appreciated. I’m sorry this was so long.

[@Blue_ocean_21]

​​@@maritamuras8978Hello, I deeply understand your struggle, because I have a similar problem. Unfortunately, I don't know the right answer, but I can pray for you. And please, always remember, that God loves you.

[@sanzzz26]

“Let the Lord unfold what He wants to unfold.” Ahhhh complete trust!

[@violetm8655]

I've finally been struck by the "this Ascension Presents video came at just the right time" that I've been seeing in comments in past videos. I've legit been praying about what he's talking about just this weekend!

[@EmmaWithJesus]

Violet Moxley I will pray for you too dear Violet! God bless you! 💕💗

[@violetm8655]

@@EmmaWithJesus You are so kind :) Thank you for the prayers. They're much appreciated

[@englishlearningcenter1470]

Man! As an ex protestant and now a committed Catholic, this video is really a wake up call. Lord! Jesus prayer at Gethsemane is a reference to this: Abba Father remove this cup from me, yet, not what I want, but what you want. Amen

[@paulcosta8297]

Is not this distinguishable, asking for the remission of an intense though time-limited bout of intense suffering, and resigning to an entire future lifehood that might be discontenting and creating bitterness for those who do not truly desire it?

[@l.7094]

Hey I’m 17 and I’m pretty sure I’m Protestant but I want to be catholic, how do I go about converting ?

[@englishlearningcenter1470]

@@l.7094 Thank God you have received this calling. If possibe go to your local Catholic Church and ask about the RCIA program. I will be praying for your conversion.

[@l.7094]

@@englishlearningcenter1470 okay thank you 🙏 I think the closest is in my town centre I shall go there when COVID restrictions are lesser thank you once again

[@lorrainesekera4100]

@@l.7094 Walk into a church, set up an appointment to speak with a priest, and go from there!

[@traethibodeaux5639]

Love it Fr. Mike. I have a prayer that states "Lord, please feed those desires that are in conjunction with Your will, and please remove those desires that are not in conjunction with Your will" This is because of exactly what you said...desires can lead us astray!!!

[@marskatz]

Our desires are not predictors of the future neither are they the voice of God. SO TRUE! But we are to attend to our desires

[@marskatz]

And understand what is this telling me about my internal disposition

[@kellyhayward548]

When our desires become so strong they overshadow the prayer, "Thy will be done, God" we are actually struggling with an idol of the heart. However, when we surrender all that we are to what God has for us and stay in step with the spirit, our desire will change. Christ before me. Christ behind me. Christ beside me. Christ within me.

[@zhaba24-pw7lf]

LOVE this. Thank you and amen!

[@sheilaquatro5409]

I just put everything in God's hands I say this is what I want but it's up to You where you want me.🙏

[@CTS55555]

Yes! That is what I do and I also ask... Jesus help me do what you want me to do. Lead the way 🕊️👍

[@ramik81]

One thing I've learned about desires is that if you make it a thing, it'll take up a lot of your time and thoughts, and drive you mad even. The truest desires are the ones you can put to sleep. And, it will wake up one day more alive than ever. I used to want to be a writer. But, be it, or be it not, I let it go when I was around 20. At 30, all of a sudden I started writing, and I was able to write how I always wanted to, and I've only grown better at it now almost 40. I think that's a test a person should do when dealing with desires that seem to take up time and are not seeming like they're going to pan out. Put them to sleep. Only when they reawaken after some time had past, that shows you're on the right path. I think God wants nothing more than to fulfill our desires. "Ask, and you shall receive, seek, and you'll shall find." But God isn't going to truly answer such unless your heart is fully willing. If a desire is only alive because you keep breathing life into it, maybe it's not a true desire. But, if a desire doesn't need our will to exist or not exist, that's something else. Something only God can put into us. And I think that's when we can truly know if it came from Him.

[@Adven4U1]

Ever since I was a young child I've wanted to drive. When I've analyzed the desire as to why I want to do it, it was the desire to Serve. I wanted to be able to babysit/ help, love, donate. That desire, when I was in high school, was thwarted mostly by my parents= they apparently didn't want me driving because it was dangerous. (Though with the Covid-19 thing, I've kinda deemed them hypocrites now)

[@chileanyways196]

thank you!

[@christjunnetfacun6269]

R.H. by this message alone you’re a true writer my dear😇

[@ramik81]

@@christjunnetfacun6269 thank you. :)

[@robonymous4620]

Note: when God called Jonah to go to Nineveh, that was probably the *_last_* thing that Jonah himself desired ... just sayin'. This is why I don't think that getting to the root of a strong personal desire for something or someone (as good as it may be for that person to understand about themselves) necessarily points to God's Perfect Will for them. Sometimes, God calls some of us to a greater sacrifice than we ourselves would ever be willing to make on our own ... just look at Our Lord as the Perfect Example ... do you think Jesus actually *_desired_* to be rejected and tortured to death by the very creatures that He Himself created, and to suffer all of the physical, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual cruelty that He did?? I don't think so. But He *_did_* desire to accomplish His Father's Perfect Will, and (very importantly) He knew what His Father's Perfect Will was, because He was in constant communion and relationship with Him. So that would be my first and foremost desire, as *_that_* would enable me to hear God's voice, and therefore, to truly know God's Perfect Will for me.

[@alexjimenez6452]

Amen!

[@RanMouri82]

There is definitely something to be said for a divine call that contradicts what we want. Many stories of religious vocations are exactly that way, with the person experiencing this tug toward consecration to God but desiring a marriage and family. I longed to spend my life as a nun evangelizing the world, but only after finding that path blocked started to consider that maybe I don't need to do this to fulfill God's will and bless others as He wills.

[@rejithregi2588]

Nice one! Jonah is an awesome prophet.

[@rejithregi2588]

"For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." 40 days after, the city of Nineveh repent. God spares their city..... In Numbers 14: "3Your sons shall wander in the desert for forty years, and they shall bear your fornication, until the carcasses of their fathers are consumed in the desert. 34According to the number of the forty days, during which you examined the land, one year shall be charged for each day. And so, for forty years you shall take back your iniquities, and you shall know my retribution. " This shows the day-year principle present in the old testament.... Also in Ezekiel 4: "I have assigned you the same number of days as the years of their sin. So for 390 days you will bear the sin of the people of Israel. “After you have finished this, lie down again, this time on your right side, and bear the sin of the people of Judah. I have assigned you 40 days, a day for each year. ".........This day year principal is present in the Jonah prophecy 40 days after the city was saved....But when the prophetic parallel of Jonah, which was Jesus, preached, they crucified him around 30-31 AD, so we see the destruction of the temple EXACTLY 40 years later in 70 AD what even Jesus told would happen....By the way the day year principal is present in the Daniel Prophecy as well...62 weeks and 7 weeks is 69 weeks.....69 x 7 = 483 years..Artaxerxes gives decree for rebuilding Jerusalem in his 7th year, which was around 457 BCE according biblical chronology.....well 457 + 483 = 27 AD(remember no 0BC) when he starts his ministry....How do we know it had to be around that time?...Herod died around 4 BCE...According to Luke Herod died because he attempted to kill baby Jesus the moment he heard the messiah was born so we can conclude Jesus to be born around 4 BC....Luke states Jesus was beginning to be 30 when he starts his ministry so 30 years + 4BC = 27 AD!(Again no 0 BC).....Well we see this a third time....15th year of Tiberius Caesar was when John starts baptizing people along with Jesus....Around 12 AD Tiberius starts his co-reign for two years until Agrippa dies in 14 AD and Tiberius becomes emperor....well 15 + 12 = 27 AD!! The prophecies are so perfect. Oh by the way, the Jews thought that when Jesus when he said he is the temple to be destroyed and rebuilt in 3 days they thought the temple was herod's...they said in John 2: They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” well 27AD - 46 years = 19 to 20BC .......the 18th year of Herod was when Herod starts building the temple according to Josephus which lies around 20 to 19 BCE... The prophecies are so perfect.

[@robonymous4620]

@@rejithregi2588 Well done! 👍🕆📿😊

[@FantasyLord19]

This literally came to me like an answer from God. Thank you so much, Fr. Mike! I do believe God is calling me to marriage, I just always thought these desires were His will and I kept falling in love head over heels every time, not understanding it's actually just a desire born from being called to have family and share a bond of love.

[@RanMouri82]

And that while those desires are good, they aren't a mystical sign.

[@FantasyLord19]

@@RanMouri82 yes!! Very important too, thank you for reminding me

[@RanMouri82]

"Can I get that little retweet?" killed me, Father! 😂 Thank you for clarifying that the strong desires that emerge in prayer do not predict the future. They mean something about us, but they don't tell us what to do or what will happen.

[@carolinav6430]

Uggggggh Padre I needed to hear this when I was 16 years old. Now I'm 47 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@vanishingllama7342]

It's ok it's fine

[@jvigil2007]

Why do you say that?

[@tonyhayes9827]

Here's my experience. I met a younger woman who spoke of love being the most important thing. Not happiness because happiness can come and go, but love, because we can always love. I was immediately attracted to her person. She is a good person. To follow up on that attraction would have been disastrous. Yeah, I'm already married right. Take it to a spiritual director and work through it. What did I have in common with the woman in our everyday lives? Nothing. So what was I attracted to? I was attracted to the love she spoke about , i.e. the love of God Himself because I already know that God is Love, not us. Problem solved, disaster avoided.

[@schneiderjudit2650]

very nicely put. i can relate but with a guy.

[@EmmaWithJesus]

I wish I heard this growing up, I’m so thankful that future generations will hear this message thanks to you! We can’t rely on our feelings to direct and determine our lives, or assume that if we desire something that God wants it too! That path can easily close our ears to hearing that God might actually have something better in store for us than we can imagine and sometimes very different from what can currently imagine. Thank you for this video Fr Mike! God bless you❤️

[@sherylaguilon7407]

Now i understand i was misled on repeating things because i keep on feeding it. I forgot to pray and listen to Him. Thank you father mike.

[@SB-gt7nt]

I used to be in the Holiness/Pentecostal movement and it’s so bad for giving personal advice/opinions as something from God. Left almost 2 years go, became non denominational, now I feel called to the Catholic Church. I’m going to my first mass this Sunday and I’m sure I’ll probably join the church soon.

[@jacksonkarani391]

Welcome to the deep well of amazing spiritual discoveries that will that will blow your mind. The fullness of truth that you will be finding every moment... oh my.. it will melt your heart in happiness, humble your thinking of how you used to see things and leave you with a desire for more. And guess what, it will have even much more for you. A good point it can advice you to start (maybe in addition to what you are already doing)... read about the life of Saints. I will pray for you that you get even deeper into the Catholic church.

[@urkosh]

"Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also"

[@GinnyandEric]

“..Unless they’re Padre Pio.” 😂 We’ll definitely be showing this video tonight during our Bible study. The theme has been discernment and this is spot on. Thank you!🙏🏼

[@RanMouri82]

In a way, I'm glad to have lived after Padre Pio went home to Our Lord. Don't think I could've handled his words in the confessional, lol!

[@MissPopuri]

He’d probably tell me I’m being too scrupulous and need to come back when I know what I’m doing.

[@guardianangel1860]

This shows that our relationship with Jesus, and other people, is not about feelings and emotions but about being open to and following God's Will, not our own. There are many times I desired grandiose things but they blew up in my face, so to speak. I knew then an there that those things were not good for my soul, not God's Will. I used to see them as life failures, but when we seek the Lord, He reveals that they are life lessons instead. Spiritual and personal growth results and your heart and soul finds peace.

[@maryannlacey4044]

This makes perfect sense! I too need to remember to turn to God to discern any issues instead of asking friends first.

[@friscokid66]

Spot on message, father! "Follow your heart"...One of the most misunderstood sayings of all time. It may hold true if your heart was totally aligned with God's will.

[@KyahTheAuthor]

Eerily well timed. And I should be grateful to hear the message but it scares me so much. I'm so afraid that what I desire so strongly is not God's Will. I want so badly to trust. I keep trying to have the right mindset but I'm overwhelmed by my heart. Pray for me

[@matthewhall6444]

This video was well timed as always. Thanks so much Father Mike! I've been going through a lot in life right now and it's been tough. This video helps me understand that ultimately, we're not on the earth for ourselves. We're here to serve God and to do what he wishes. With a busy life it's easy to get caught up and forget that, make the wrong decision and then it feels like you're back at square one again. As most people do, I have tons of desires and things I want to do, but I just have to realize we have to follow God's plan. As father explained in the video, I too was in a relationship with a young lady and she seemed perfect. (Or as perfect as an earthly being could be) She was amazing and well rounded in all areas, and I felt for her more than I've ever felt for anyone. Nearing the end of the relationship, I felt as if I could marry her, but a couple weeks after that time the relationship ended and she said "I just feel like I need time to think and to get to know myself, and to think about what God wants". That crushed me, and still weighs on me. That was 4 months ago and it still hurts every day, but I understand I just have to get over my desires and accept that relationship is not what God wanted.

[@juliusrendon5936]

😭🤗🤗

[@elisac.8611]

This video post is definitely from the Holy Spirit. I’m going through a similar situation as the young woman you’re referencing. This is incredibly helpful to get my prayers and desires back on track. Thank you, Fr. Mike!

[@akshadagodinho950]

Unless they are Padre Pio 💯🔥 who else felt that.

[@maureen.evangelista]

Using our desires to understand ourselves more, not to predict our future. Thx Fr Mike!

[@lgb5661]

Soooo true! I have learned this tough lesson many times in life. Eventually, I learned to let it go entirely and let God lead my path. This is sooo hard!

[@aimeerk]

An eye opener for me... Always thought that if I have a strong desire for something that is holy and good according to God's precepts then it must be God's Will. Thank you for this video Father. May God continue to bless your work.

[@BeardedDev90]

this was good timing, no doubt because valentines day is around the corner

[@Fitpravida]

Brian B 😂

[@nataliemcconnell1930]

I have just become a member of the “perfect timing “ club 😂🙏 Thank You Fr. Mike 😌

[@Waterfield_Robbie]

So do I ...😌

[@christiskingforever2880]

Amen, knowing the difference between when it is God's will and when it is our will.

[@pajimacas]

I have been desiring--praying to be relieved from my responsibility in a Catholic Charismatic Renewal Group. My desire only. And I'm passive-aggressively pushing for it... I'm just so tired of it not bearing fruit in the past 7 years of service... Pray for me, whoever may be reading this...

[@fouinyff6792]

You can't never know for sure whether you are bearing fruit...it's not because you don't see them, there is none. And if this responsabiliy is a "sacrifice" for you (as it seems) then offer up this sacrifice to God.Sacrifice does bear fruit...as prayers, they ALWAYS do, even though we do not see them! It could be a conversion at the hour of the death for someone, helping a sinner somewhere, ... However, though I don't know your situation, you could also stop this responsability to chose to do something else.. sometimes we need to take decision, if there is no clear sign from God.

[@patrickmiron9177]

I will pray for you. Wondering if there has been any leading since posted? I took work in a ministry in which it often feels that there is little or no fruit. I imagine that we have many similar struggles and thoughts. Be open and faithful and let the good shepherd lead. Grace and Peace.

[@albertoascari2542]

I have Joined CCR events in the last few years and I find them very uplifting and joyful. A man named Damian Stayne has some great talks on CCR and his Vatican approved lay group Cor Et Lumen Christi. They offer Prophetic Ministry, Word, Eucharistic Healing, Prophecy, Street Evangelisation etc. You should look them up on KZbin and Facebook. They are based in London, England and do worldwide CCR events and more. Also Metanoia Project in Lancashire, does local CCR here and evangeliation.

[@nickwit21]

Yup, got it! "Attend to that desire and find out what its reveals about what's really in your heart."

[@pattineistat8468]

Fr. Mike hits on all subjects that we deal with in life. He is so full of the Spirit and enlightens me every-time I listen to him.

[@lupetellez2494]

Thank you lord for your discernment! I pray we all find the light in our path, may we walk not towards the lord but with him. Amen

[@irenesemos3661]

Thank you Fr Mike. This is the bittersweet lesson of my twenties. Grateful for the lessons I have gone through life to teach me how to grow in virtue. God bless Ascension Presents and your Pastoral ministry.

[@emptylikebox]

I believe it's also the same with our dreams. Like we have that desire to be something or somebody but sometimes it's not meant for us and we wonder why God planted that desire to begin with. Thanks for this!

[@ascottripping7741]

''THIS IS THE BEST KNOLEDGE TO GUIDE ME THANKS FOR THIS CONTENT ''

[@sebastiansalas6009]

This is the craziest video because I was able to make sense. I have been having the hardest time in my life right now, I'm questioning everything. I decided that I needed to rebuild my relationship with God and out of the blue I thought maybe I was called to be a priest. The feeling it gave me was nothing but deep dread, panic, and anxiety. It was almost as if my body and soul was screaming "NO" and yet my mind continued to keep on kicking, causing me so much fear and uncomfort. I kept looking for an answer and deep down I knew that this wasn't my calling but I continued to feed the idea. So much so that it ate at me and made me feel sick. At 6:00 on the video, he said "Why does He keep coming up!? It must be a sign from God?! Well, why do you keep bringing him up." It finally clicked. My idea of being one with Christ has always been backed by being a priest as this is what I have been taught. But Father Mike's saying finally made sense of why it continued to persist and grow. I made it grow by my own worry and second guessing. This helped give me peace.

[@joelkanatt797]

"My yolk is easy, and my burden is light" Remember that.

[@gill426]

Cool! I wouldn't say that our desires aren't the voice of God but that they are the voice of God obscured by worldly experiences and beliefs. So I totally agree with you to attend to them and find out more. A great advice on how to communicate and gently be with yourself. :)

[@_lines_of_joy]

Father Mike, you are a God-send to me. I listen to you every day🙏🏻💖 your words of wisdom bring me closer to God. What I love about the way you share God’s teachings is that it’s so relatable to real life. I just marathoned 6 of your videos tonight and shared it on my FB page. You are a Christmas blessing Father. I also listen to your online mass even if I’ve already attended in person mass because I love your homilies.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 you are gifted in being able to cascade God’s message in a modern, relatable way. More power to you Father Mike🙏🏻💖🙏🏻

[@maggiecuevas4064]

Wonderfully said!! Example my intention and desire is a family, but even though it might not be fulfilled I can chase that good intention in whatever else that can signify family. This is wonderful!!! We can’t always have what we want it’s always what we need and what we’re really called for what’s most important over all Gods will!!

[@laurenreid7524]

Man this couldn’t have come at a better time. Also is it just me or would a Fr. Mike and Dr. Mike collab be awesome?

[@micahjhoffman8329]

Wise man, wise words

[@eliettemendes7373]

Hard but necessary truths. I praise the Lord for your ministry, may He keep you safe and strong!

[@emb3rpe4k61]

Literally my exact story. I needed this. God works in amazing ways ❤️

[@juliediazoni8112]

I needed to hear this. My desire to move to a small town and start enjoying life in my mid 50s has been very strong for so many many years. I figured it is just God saying wait. Wait. Wait. Wait. I will once again look at what causes this strong desire. If only my husband had it too all these years. Then I would be more certain I was following God. But I DO always pray….”Lord, let Your will become my desire. “.

[@chainsawbill]

I've been having a very hard time getting over a rejection for the past several years, and it's made it very tough for me to push myself back into dating. I needed to hear this advice.

[@MC_Biggie_Cheese]

Are you dating now? Do you believe God wants you to get married at all? I am a blackpilled incel now

[@JeanneGrunert]

"Unless you're talking to Padre Pio..." Best statement ever. Thanks Father MIke!

[@michaelking98324]

You don’t know how much I appreciate your work and this channel. This world need priests like you. God bless you all ❤️

[@LuisSanchezLouieLouie]

Thank you, Father.

[@mariagrota5826]

You’re a wise chap, Fr Mike. Thank God for your brain. And for speaking g to us.

[@mbtvalli]

So glad you’re speaking about giving people too much power. It’s especially rampant among young, zealous Christians. Good work, Father. It’s so easy to give up personal responsibility in the name of God.

[@elisekerr1722]

THANK YOU Thank you. I'm watching on the feast of the Immaculate Conception 2022 with new eyes!! Second time through I caught myself FLOORED, in tears, because of how FREEING this idea is. That my desires are NOT the voice of God; that others telling me what they think I am called to is something to note but not carry as God's clear-cut will; that if my desires are growing it is more so because I am feeding them; and that God reveals to us our deeper longings as revelation through our desires, and that they ought to be attended to...I'm just thrilled beyond belief, and so grateful to hear this. Immaculate Mother, pray for us, and thank you for the grace mediated through your merciful hands in this reflection by Fr. Mike! Keep his heart in your most pure heart for bringing the greatest possible glory to God. To all of them at Ascension Presents as well-- God bless ☺️

[@cynthiahabonimana1035]

Thank you! 🙌🏾

[@snoopy1965]

God blessings and love please pray I own a home soon.

[@Ms.K_LaTrailera]

❤ I appreciate this, Father. This came to me at a time of confusion and uncertainty, and it resonated, but I know I will continue to heal and grow on GOD'S path he has for me❤ Sending ❤❤❤ to everyone

[@JesusRamirez-hu1eh]

It sounds as if God is fighting against us, instead of with us.

[@See-if_I_care]

Speak on it!

[@JesusRamirez-hu1eh]

Don’t get me wrong. The heart of the message is right. It’s just that God is so loving, that he would probably say the same thing, with other types of words: “I love you so much, I’m going to fulfill all of your dreams and desires. It’s just that right now, I’m having a little bit of trouble.” 😅

[@taiscdias]

God bless Father Mike! Brazilian people now can access your teachings thorough a KZbin channel in Brazil that post your videos with subtitles in Portuguese. I’m glad they’re doing that. I watch all videos here in Canada! 🙏🏼

[@lovelast4evergemma508]

Thought provoking for me Thank You Father Mike for the Wisdom!!!

[@Allenda100]

I understand this. I use to think I was supposed to be a filmmaker, but what God gave me was a love of film as he knew I would be in a position (caring for family) where I would need to be still-and movies would be a great form of taking a break. Just because God gives you eggs doesn’t mean he wants you to raise chickens. It took me a while, but I’m learning to be patient and still.💕🙃

[@KB_2161]

Evil is not a thing God created but an absence of good that God tolerates. Trent Horn

[@erlindaestrellado8184]

Thanks 🙏 Fr Mike For Inspiring Reflections Amen 🙏 JMJ ❤

[@banesaarzate6057]

Perfect timing, thank you Father Mike 🙏 And amen, may God’s will unfold. 🙏

[@Love-44]

Good message!! True indeed. God's plan for our life, I believe, will include all our gifts and talents but be used in a higher way and for a higher purpose. We have to let go and surrender to his will. Praying Rosary always helps me It gives me a better perspective so I can see more clearly. And not to fall into traps or compare your life with others. We all have unique gifts.

[@bitty4994]

Great video! This was great to help me decide what to do in high school!

[@louisvarljen4043]

Your insight is most definitely coming from the Holy Spirit!

[@cntrolman1]

Thank you Father Mike. God has answered me thru this video. God bless.

[@mcv5705]

Why do I love this video so much?! He is so real and funny in this one- I love it! "You have a good heart- don't trust it." 😂

[@DungNguyen-vn3eu]

I was drinking water and the Padre Pio part came around @2:25 I laughed and almost spilled my water. Fr. Mike is right I was in a relationship and thought God wanted it for us , but after months of praying and discernment. I finally understood the break up and realize I need to continue serving and if it comes it comes nothing should be forced, but embraced to face with the Lord.

[@zeljkaklindzic5704]

Thank you Fr. Mike Schmitz. I find your talks very informative, helpful and calming. God bless you and keep you safe. 🙏🏻🥰

[@saraanic9436]

You have a good heart, too, Fr. Mike 😃

[@margaretgerlach5918]

it is amazing when you ask yourself the same question, and then hear it from another..... then it clicks in on what answer you were praying for all along comes to you....

[@adamc7987]

I realized everything he talked about a few days before watching this.

[@williamday6218]

You’re so funny and honest, God bless & Ave Maria.

[@mnm2156]

Amen. Thank you Fr. Mike and team 🙏😊👍🙌

[@AyngeMackay]

This really happened to me, about five years ago. I got into this singer in a big way because his songs made me so happy. I found out he was coming to do a live show. At the time I was broke and unemployed and could not get a job to save my life, and yet I could not stop thinking about going to the concert. Finally, as the show neared and I was was still broke and DYING to go, I prayed, " God, I am NOT praying for concert tickets. I want to go to this show more than I want a job, and I know how absurd and stupid that is. I'm praying that You take this desire from me. i do not want to want this anymore. In Jesus' holy name I pray, amen." I was at my desk with my head still bowed, and I noticed something flicker on the computer screen. I looked up and a new email had popped up. It said, "WINNER!!! IF YOU ARE READING THIS EMAIL, YOU HAVE WON --" I clicked it open, and saw that I had won two VIP tickets to the very concert I was dying to attend. I screamed, then called my best friend to tell her about the miracle. She said, "Girl, you're probably the only person who entered that contest. Nobody ever heard of that guy." But explain to me how that email arrived SECONDS after I prayed, and that I never win anything... HALLELUJAH, LORD!! (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧ Thank you!! It was such a great show.

[@Dee-ur9zq]

Did you get to meet the singer?

[@AyngeMackay]

@@Dee-ur9zq Yep. And I asked him to play my favorite song of his, and he played it. So much fun.

[@ashleynewton2474]

This video popped up on a morning that I desperately needed to hear something just like this. Thank you for the thought provoking points.

[@yara_gabrielii]

I understand 60% this video 😳, im to learn english with you Father Mike Thank you for your yes ❤️❤️❤️ God bless you❤️😍

[@dominicneighbor9407]

I was in a relationship with a girl for almost 2 years, it was great and good. She helped lead me closer to the Lord than I ever thought I would go and I felt that we would get married, but she broke up with me about two months ago. I was hurt but after time in prayer and going to the sacraments, I feel healed. At this point in my life, I have a desire for the priesthood but whenever I pray about my vocation I always feel/hear that God is calling me towards marriage. So I’m definitely going to bring this to prayer and also talk to my spiritual director about this. ALSO IF YOU DONT HAVE A GOOD SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR GET ONE!!!!

[@gabrielpinedamendoza1923]

I love father mike, he unravels what I feel and makes it so much clearer

[@carriek3334]

Thank you.🙏🏽

[@annapatricio3725]

Letting the Lord guide our heart

[@Erica-e8w]

Thank you So Very much Father Mike for your videos, I've learned a lot from them 💖💖💖 God Bless you 🙏🌈🌻

[@jeremiahguard11]

Amen 🙏🏾 whatever Gods plan is for me I pray that I can take it and strive and do it all through him

[@tracicauchi7819]

Thank you! I really needed to hear this❤️❤️🙏🏼

[@marvinmansueto6081]

The keyword for me is Over Time. Certain desires fade away, crop up over a short phase of our life. But certain dreams and wishes and inclinations towards good things remain in our hearts over long stretches of time. We have to be patient with ourselves and study our hearts well. Thank you Fr Mike, interesting as usual.

[@powerliftingcentaur]

All of this rang very true. Thanks, Fr. Mike.

[@sueeason7827]

Father Schmitz is an amazing speaker! Love your talks!!

[@robertdelgadocapetillo8684]

Yep this is one of those moments where we say to God WHYYYYYY!?!?!?!?!. Cuz He's a Tyrant.

[@djoseph5072]

Yep.

[@christophewakim3587]

😂

[@schneiderjudit2650]

God is not a Tyrant. His ways are not our ways..

[@CatholicChaplets]

Thank you! Such great insights into the examination of our desires. I'm going to spend some time reflecting on some of my current desires and what the deeper meaning behind them might be.