Q:
I have an important decision to make, and my parents are pulling me one way and friends are pulling me another. Who should I listen to? I don't want to make a mistake.
A:
I’m thankful for your concern; far too many young people, I’m afraid, make decisions without really thinking of the consequences, and end up destroying their futures. The Bible says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline” (Proverbs 19:20).
The most important thing I can urge you to do is listen to God and seek His will concerning this decision. God loves you, and (believe it or not) He is more concerned about your future than you are. That’s why the most important decision you can make right now is to turn to Jesus Christ and commit your life to Him. Putting your life into His hands is one decision that is never wrong. Don’t delay, but ask Christ to come into your life today, and He will.
Then seek His will concerning this decision. Do take into account the concerns of your parents and your friends; God can use them to help you decide. But above all, pray about this decision, and ask God to guide you. God’s promise (which I urge you to memorize) is for you: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
How will God direct you? It may be through a door that clearly opens or closes; it may be through an inner conviction; it may be through a prayerful analysis of your situation. The Bible says, “Walk in obedience to all I command you, that it may go well with you” (Jeremiah 7:23). God bless you.