There are some individuals God will use
to sow into your life. But, there will also be individuals who will be sent by the enemy to distract you. They will attach themselves to you,
but it won't be a divine connection. I want to share some sound wisdom.
Be careful who you trust.
Be careful who you listen to. Everyone's advice is not sound advice. If you're not discerning, you'll end up being controlled by the unhealthy ideas, perceptions, and opinions of others. You'll seek out the approval and validation of outside sources, before you settle upon certain decisions. You won't regard prayer and the Word of God, as being essential to productivity in your life.
You'll have everyone's voice in your ears, except the voice of God. You'll be pulled in numerous directions, unsure of which way to go. This is so dangerous, but you don't have to fall into this trap. See, there are many well-meaning individuals in the world; they're simply not in the position to advise you.
Well-meaning and well-qualified are two different things. Everyone can't be your mentor. There are those who try to be mentors and turn out to be menaces. When you take their advice, you end up in a world of trouble. They're not good for you. God wants you to take a step back from some of your relationships.
Sometimes, we allow others to "take the wheel", while we sit in the passenger seat and allow them to run our lives for us. God never intended for us to relinquish control and give it over to someone else. That's not friendship, mentorship, or relationship; that's manipulation.
Why do so many people end up in this situation? Well, many individuals have a natural tendency to lean on others for direction and guidance. They don't trust the Lord or themselves. They suffer from severe co-dependency issues. Thus, they feel the need to rely on the pseudo-intellect of others to help them determine what to do.
While this is very unhealthy, it's all-too-common among many folks. You see, when we come into contact with dominant personalities, we tend to be swayed by their thoughts and ideas. They seem to have a knack for getting others to bend to their will. Individuals like this seem so self-assured and confident; that's why we are more likely to defer to them. After all, they seem to have it together.
But this isn't always the case. Unfortunately, we sometimes mistake being opinionated for being wise. Hmmm... think about that for a moment. Some individuals have a lot to say, but there is no real substance to their words. That's why we must be discerning and perceptive enough to know the difference between those who are are just saying something, and those who have something of substance to say.
Just because a piece of advice sounds practical, doesn't mean it's practicable. Be sure that your "mentors" are qualified to guide you. Measure their words according to The Word. Allow God to order your steps and illuminate your path. "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105 NKJV).
Also, be sure that no one and nothing ever takes the place of your communion with the Father. Only He understands where you are, and where you're going. He's knows the end from the beginning; others do not.
Be sure to diligently seek Him in prayer. "...He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6b NKJV). Study His Word. Spend time in His presence. He'll reveal so much to you when you take time to talk to Him.
Listen, God doesn't desire for us to be led astray. He wants us to be close to Him. He doesn't want us to be confused or deceived. But the only way to avoid deferring to the wrong individuals for advice and support, is to put your complete trust and confidence in God.
Until next time... may you be empowered to prosper!
Dianna Hobbs
