Sound Advice In A Noisy World

No matter how many friends you have, you probably only turn to a few when you need advice. But most of us let a few other voices affect us too. The opinion of the crowd sometimes weighs more than it should. There’s no shortage of internal voices either: ambition, power, wealth, revenge, greed, pleasure, compromise, and self-centeredness. In one respect or another, all of these voices—whether internal or external—are simply expressing the ways of the world.

Learn to tune in to the quiet voices that consistently speak truth to you. First and foremost, that’s God. Practice hearing His gentle whisper. But also listen to the counsel of those you trust: your spouse, your parents and other family members, your close friends. These people know you well, they have been with you in the valleys and on the mountaintops, and unlike many other voices, they want what’s best for you.

His Promises

Only simpletons believe everything they’re told!

The prudent carefully consider their steps.

My child, listen to what I say,

and treasure my commands.

Tune your ears to wisdom,

and concentrate on understanding.

Cry out for insight,

and ask for understanding.

Search for them as you would for silver;

seek them like hidden treasures.

Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD,

and you will gain knowledge of God.

Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given—and you will receive even more.