Who Are You Listening To?

Have you ever followed advice that seemed right at the time, only to realize later that it led you down the wrong path? In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by voices—friends, media, influencers, and even our own inner thoughts—each offering guidance on how to live, what to value, and what choices to make. But how do we know which voices to trust?

The Bible provides wisdom on this very question. In Jeremiah 17, the prophet contrasts two types of people: one who trusts in human wisdom alone, becoming like a shrub in the desert, and one who trusts in the Lord, flourishing like a tree by the water, free from fear and full of life. This contrast challenges us to reflect on the voices we follow. Are we listening to the right sources, or are we relying on advice that leads us astray?

An old TV show, Leave It to Beaver, offers a lighthearted but insightful example of misguided influence. The main character, Beaver, often followed the advice of his brother’s friend, Eddie Haskell. Eddie, though charming, led Beaver into trouble with his schemes. Beaver, eager to fit in or have fun, would listen to Eddie—usually ending up in some mess. While the problem always came to a happy conclusion for Beaver, the truth is that real life isn’t a sitcom.  Bad advice can have real consequences in life—broken relationships, lost opportunities, or deep regrets.

Jesus himself warned about false teachers who appear trustworthy but lead people astray. In Matthew 7, he says, "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit, you will recognize them." This is not about dividing people into "good" and "bad.” The reality is that we all make mistakes in who we listen to. Sometimes, we follow advice that seems wise but turns out to be empty. Other times, we ignore guidance that could truly help us.

How do we avoid these pitfalls? One approach is to ask key questions: Does this advice bring clarity and peace, or does it lead to confusion and fear? Does it promote kindness and integrity, or does it encourage selfishness and division? And most importantly, what kind of fruit does it produce? Does it lead to a life richer in love, meaning, and good relationships, or does it leave regret and brokenness?

In a world full of noise, it’s easy to get lost in the chatter. But if we take the time to reflect and evaluate the voices we follow, we can find a path that leads not to confusion, but to fulfillment. So, take a moment to consider: Who are you listening to? And is their voice leading you toward your best life, the life God desires for you?