A cliché is a stereotyped expression that expresses a popular concept and has lost its impact due to overuse. Clichés can become a stumbling block for many Christians because they make us believe certain lies of the enemy in a seemingly innocent manner. I myself have uttered these five phrases several times in my life without even thinking about the Biblical truths that they contradict.

1. “If it makes you happy.”

This is a phrase that is uttered frequently to us. However, what “makes you happy” is often in conflict with what is pleasing to God.

“For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want.” Galatians 5:17

2. “Of course! You would do it for me.”

This is a common response when someone thanks  us for helping them out. This phrase implies that we are merely serving with the expectation that others will serve us when we are in need. Our only motivation for serving should be to glorify our magnificent God.

“Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.” Isaiah 58:10

3. “Believe in yourself!”

We commonly say this to people to build up their self-esteem. However, we should not believe in ourselves because our ways are foolish. As Christians, we do not believe in our own ability to do good.  We believe in God’s ability to do good through us, in spite of ourselves.

“We have this kind of confidence toward God through Christ:  not that we are competent in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our competence is from God.” 2 Corinthians 3:4-5.

4. “Be yourself.”

Every one of us was born with a sin nature.The good news is we can become new creations in Christ.  There is a reason this is called being “born again.”  It should completely change who we are.  Our goal should no longer be to be ourselves, it should be to be like Jesus Christ.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

5. “You can do anything you set your mind to.”

This phrase implies that if we want to do something, we can (with a little hard work).  However, we cannot do anything without Christ because without him we are nothing!

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

When considering theses clichés, one thing I noticed about them was that they all focus on us and not on Christ! We need to be mindful in choosing our words. “No rotten talk should come from your mouth, but only what is good for the building up of someone in need, in order to give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29

Are there any other phrases you hear Christians say that do not reflect Biblical truths?