Let’s go back in history . . . way back. Jeremiah, one of God’s prophets in the Old Testament, had the assignment of warning God’s people in Judah that if they didn’t change their behavior and attitude, they would be besieged by an enemy army and taken into exile in Babylon.

As God describes how He will punish His people for their rebellion, idol worship, and detestable sins, Jeremiah provides God an excuse for Judah. (Apparently, Jeremiah felt the people were at a disadvantage because of what other prophets were predicting.)

Let’s listen in: “But I said, ‘Ah, Sovereign LORD, the prophets keep telling them, “You will not see the sword or suffer famine. Indeed, I will give you lasting peace in this place”’” (Jeremiah 14:13).

Hear God’s response: “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds” (Jeremiah 14:14).

Simply put, God did not accept the excuse that Judah had been deceived.

Fast forward to today. What messages are we hearing from the news, social media, and perhaps even some churches? Are we responsible for discerning what is true and false? Do we have a pass on consequences if we blindly follow those who are purposely trying to mislead us?

Listener, beware. Are we filling our minds with truth from God’s Word? Or, lazily allowing the world’s lies to linger and bloom into full blown delusions in our minds?

I don’t think we will get away with rebellion and unfaithfulness just because someone suggested it’s the right thing to do or promised there would be no consequences.

It’s time to be wise listeners and live what aligns with God’s Word. Our future is at stake.