It would be nice if I could say that people stopped using troubling phrases after they grew out of their adolescent years, but unfortunately, that is not always the case. Grown folks still use troubling phrases, words that turn to trouble on various levels, at times elevating to violence. I’m sure you remember some troubling phrases. Here are a just a few, and you will notice that I eliminated any of the phrases we have heard that were filled with profanity.
“Touch me again and you will see what happens!”
“Are you going to let him/her get away with that?”
Did you hear what she/he said about you? It wasn’t nice!”
“Fight back!”
“Ooooh! He/she told you!”
“If it was me, I would have popped her/him!”
I know, you have heard troubling phrases that were worse than what you just read. I know I have! Listen! While I will admonish you to avoid saying such phrases, let me tell you that there is one troubling phrase that I approve of because it is biblical. It is a troubling phrase that should not be eliminated, but rather included, integrated into your “make disciples” witnessing repertoire of words. What is this troubling phrase? As Dr. Ralph West would say, “I’m glad you asked.”
The troubling phrase, is really only found in the first part of a scripture you have surely heard, and it says, “The wages of sin is death…” Now, don’t just use it alone. Include the second part of the verse that I am sure you have heard as well. But, just in case, I have put the whole verse below. Who knows? I may equip you to be an evangelist yet! That’s kind of my job, to equip the saints for ministry. Have a wonderful Wednesday! Avoid troubling phrases, unless you have an occasion to use the one below that meets the Lord’s approval. I can say that because it is in the bible, and all scriptures are inspired by God. So, use the whole verse! Use the first part that should be a troubling phrase but go beyond the semi-colon and use the last part which surely can lead to a blessed, assured, and triumphant feeling. It will make one know, if you believe, trouble won’t last always! Love you! Be blessed!
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23 KJV)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King