Death of Swag

Ok, so maybe the term "swag" will not be needing life insurance anytime soon. Credited to Will Smith in the 90s, the term is still going strong many years later and is used throughout society in more than just hip hop. Originating from the negatively defined term "swagger" (see below), the modified slang can simply mean the way one walks, strides, or presents themselves generally, even their lifestyle.

swagger
to walk or strut with a defiant or insolent air; ostentatious display of arrogance and conceit; to strut, brag, boast

In secular culture, the term is usually boasted to portray pride in ones self and belongings. But of course, Christians who have adopted the term use it to represent the "blessings" or "confidence" they now have in Christ. And hey, why not! Some people just cant help the favor they receive, or the prosperity that follows them around. Nevertheless, an issue presents itself when the term swag is joined to Christ, and used inappropriately.

If you're going to claim "swag like Christ" then "like Christ" should look... "like Christ".

Quite frankly, Christ never boasted in chariots, castles, new sandals, or shekels. AKA, Christ's swag was not found in cars, mansions, new shoes, or money. Many will respond saying God has always promised earthly wealth for His people, and will point out King David and King Solomon who were known for their unending riches and possessions. And to that I say -- so use them as your role models then!

There is nothing wrong with saying you got "swag like King Solomon" while pointing out the new Jordans God recently dropped in your lap. But by golly-gee-wiz, please don't use Christ's name in vain. Swag is here to stay, no matter how misunderstood and overused it becomes. But let's keep things and the men and women of the Bible in their proper place and testimony.

I love y'all man! And just to show that this blog was written in humble, lighthearted fun, I will post a few embarrassing lines to some old bars I wrote in my swag phase (but appropriately quoting Christ and not King Solomon), LOL:

When I swag like Christ, what does that look like?
I talk about it all the time, but let me define.
I got a peace like my Daddy and a sweet shalom (Jn 14:27)
Nothin lacking nothin missing-yo I been made whole! (Jn 16:33)
Got a joy unspeakable that always shows (Jn 15:11)
No need to mean mug, my kindness has a killer glow (Lk 6:35)
......

Lose your Swag, become a FOOL for Him. -Da Truth
*inspired by the following DaSouth.com discussion thread on Millyon's new music video "Swaggin": Click here!