“For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, ‘Do not let your prophets who are in your midst and your diviners deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams which they dream. For they prophesy falsely to you in My name; I have not sent them,’ declares the LORD.”
Jeremiah 29:8-9
Influence is a mighty tool that can be used to motivate people toward good or manipulate them for evil. In Old Testament times, the office of prophet carried great influence in the palace. Prophets had the king’s ear and could sway decisions economically, militarily, and even spiritually for a nation. The standard of truth was simple for a prophet: if what they said came to pass, they retained their office. If, however, they used their office incorrectly by speaking falsely on behalf of God, they were to be killed.
Do you believe fake news? Fake news in modern culture is an example of “experts” using “selective information” to influence people into believing or doing. How do you know whom you can trust? How do you know when you are being deceived by another or even yourself? Our own desires can sometimes be most to blame for talking us into things we should not be talked into. President Ronald Regan, when considering whether or not to trust the Soviet Union with regard to their missile program, said, “Trust but verify!” Here are a few litmus tests you can give yourself to verify that the information being presented to you is legitimate.
LITMUS TESTS FOR DECISION-MAKING
VERIFIABLE EVIDENCE: Based on the claims being made, are there people you can talk to that do not have a “dog in the hunt” who can verify the facts? Let every fact be confirmed by two or three witnesses.
SELF-DECEIT: If you are in need, especially medically or financially, you are particularly vulnerable. Are you being swayed by relationships that have influence with you for your benefit or for their benefit? The heart can be talked into just about anything if it wants something enough. Are you seeing things as they are or as you want them to be?
CONSEQUENCES: As you count the cost of making your decision, play the tape to the end in a few different outcomes. What will the medical, financial, social, or relational outcome be if you are wrong? What will the cost be if you choose not to move forward with your decision?
TELL THEIR CLAIMS TO OTHER EXPERTS: What would friends OR other respected people not in your immediate circle say about the decision you are considering? For me, I have found that if I am uncomfortable sharing a course of action with others, then it’s a good indication something is wrong, or I may be on a road toward self-deception. Remember that in the midst of counselors is wisdom.
REFLECT TO CONNECT
- In what ways have you been deceived by people you trusted?
- How can you tell the difference between fact and fiction when being presented with options by experts?
- Where does one draw the line between presenting something in a positive light vs. going too far and exaggerating?
God hears the inner thoughts of every heart; He knows when you are talking yourself or someone else into something you should not.
