Life is full of choices, and some of the most significant decisions we make are about who we allow to influence us. Whether we realize it or not, the voices we listen to shape our perspectives, guide our actions, and ultimately determine the path we walk. In the book of Proverbs, Solomon offers timeless wisdom to his son, Rehoboam, on this very topic: choosing the right voices to follow.
The story of Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12 serves as a cautionary tale. Faced with a critical decision as the new king, he sought advice from two groups: the elders who had served his father, Solomon, and the young men he had grown up with. Tragically, Rehoboam rejected the wisdom of the elders and followed the foolish counsel of his peers. His decision led to the division of the kingdom and a 400-year ripple effect of consequences.
This story raises a critical question: Who are the voices that truly shape your story?
1. Listen to Those Who Love You
Proverbs 1:8-9 encourages us to “listen to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.” God places people in our lives who genuinely care for us, want the best for us, and desire to guide us in wisdom.
- They have experience you don’t. Your parents, mentors, or other godly figures have walked through seasons of life you’ve yet to encounter. They’ve learned lessons from their successes and failures and can help you avoid pitfalls.
- They love you deeply. Parents often describe their children as their hearts walking around outside their bodies. Their love drives their desire to guide you wisely.
- Their guidance brings favor. Solomon compares godly teaching to a wreath of victory and a necklace of guidance. Following the counsel of those who love you leads to a life marked by God’s favor.
When you have parents, mentors, or spiritual leaders who love God and invest in your life, listen to them. Their teaching often lives on, even if they’re no longer with you. And if you feel alone, remember that God often provides others—pastors, youth leaders, grandparents, or friends—who can step into that role.
Illustration: In It’s a Wonderful Life, young George Bailey sees a sign in his father’s office that says, “Ask Dad. He Knows.” That simple message reminds us of the wisdom and love we can find in those who care for us most.
2. Ignore Those Who Love Themselves
Proverbs 1:10-19 warns against listening to sinners who entice others into wrongdoing. These individuals aren’t looking out for your good; they’re motivated by selfish desires.
- They tempt you to sin. Their goal is to seduce you into actions that dishonor God, often for their gain.
- They don’t care about you. Unlike those who love you, these voices are focused on themselves. They appeal to your pride, your desire for belonging, or your greed, but their motives are entirely self-serving.
- Their path leads to destruction. Solomon paints a vivid picture of the consequences of following such people. He describes sinners setting traps for others, only to end up ensnared themselves. Ultimately, their pursuit of unjust gain leads to their ruin—and yours if you follow them.
Illustration: Rehoboam’s friends offered him advice that appealed to his pride and ego, but their counsel was reckless. Instead of serving the people with humility, Rehoboam chose arrogance, leading to the nation’s division.
Why listen to those who prioritize themselves over your well-being? Their influence may bring short-term satisfaction but will ultimately lead to loss and regret.
Who Will You Listen To?
Rehoboam’s story reminds us that the voices we choose to follow matter. Listening to the wrong influences can have devastating consequences, while listening to godly counsel can lead to a life of favor and blessing.
The world is full of voices vying for your attention—some calling you toward wisdom and others enticing you into sin. But there is one voice above all others that you can trust: the voice of Jesus.
- No one loves you more than He does.
- No one knows you better than He does.
- No one has your best interests at heart more than He does.
When you choose to listen to Jesus, you’ll find guidance, peace, and a path that leads to eternal life.
The choice is yours: Will you listen to those who love you or to those who love themselves? Choose wisely, because the decisions you make today will shape your tomorrow.
Proverbs 1:33 reminds us: “But whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” Listen to Him. Follow His wisdom. And trust that His way is always best.
