Being informed is more than just an intellectual pursuit. It is a vital tool that helps us fulfill our basic human needs: (1) survival and safety, (2) decision-making, (3) social belonging, and (4) human dignity and autonomy. Without being informed—or well-informed—we cannot fully meet these needs, and therefore cannot truly thrive as human beings.

Life, with all its unpredictability, vicissitudes, and perils, often makes us dependent on news. We want to know what is happening so we can protect ourselves, make wise decisions, choose the right path, and live freely to the best of our understanding. For some, that means closely following the Russia–Ukraine war or the deadline President Trump has given to President Putin. For many Armenians, it is the upcoming meeting between Armenia’s Prime Minister and the Presidents of the United States and Azerbaijan. Such headlines stir hopes, fears, and doubts. When the truth is clouded by bias or manipulation, it can be overwhelming to discern reality from distortion.

The same is true in our spiritual lives. We hunger for truth, yet sometimes what is offered is not wholesome despite its attractive wrapping, or so heavy that we cannot digest it. In such moments, whether about world events or the state of our soul, we need guidance.

This is what makes the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch so powerful (Acts 8:26–40). The eunuch was reading the prophet Isaiah but could not grasp the meaning. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The eunuch replied, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” Then Philip sat beside him and opened the Scriptures to his understanding.

The world is filled with voices, some true and some false, all competing for our attention. Whether it is the news we hear, the spiritual teaching we receive, or the information shaping our daily choices, it is a blessing to have someone who will sit with us and guide us toward truth. That guide may be our priest, father-confessor, mentor, teacher, parent, child, sibling, or friend.

And if, for any reason, we cannot find such guidance, let us turn to God in prayer. Let us ask Him to enlighten our minds and hearts with His wisdom, so that we are not lost in the interpretation of the news and the messages we receive. May God quiet the noise, guide our steps, and lead us to the truth that sets us free.