The term “swag” or “swagger” often refers to a style, attitude, or confidence that projects a bold, self-assured persona. When considering this topic from a biblical perspective, there are several factors to weigh.
On the positive side, the Bible encourages confidence and boldness, in the right context. For example, Proverbs 28:1 states, “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” And the apostle Paul wrote, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). Having proper confidence and assurance can be beneficial.
However, the Bible also warns against arrogance, pride, and boasting. Passages like Proverbs 16:18 (“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall”) and 1 Corinthians 13:4 (“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant”) advise against self-exaltation. The book of James says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).
So a distinction could be made between godly confidence that comes from the Lord, versus swagger that stems from selfish pride or conceit. Colossians 3:12 encourages Christians to clothe themselves “with compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” Any attitude that contradicts those Christ-like qualities would be cautioned against.
Additionally, the motivation behind one’s swagger is important to consider. Is the desire for status, attention, or impressing others? Or is it to sincerely glorify God? Jesus warned against practicing righteousness “to be seen by others” (Matthew 6:1). Paul, conversely, says whether we eat, drink, or whatever we do, it should be done “for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). The heart’s motivation makes a difference.
Furthermore, while self-assurance can be positive, Scripture also advises caution against overestimating one’s abilities or wisdom. “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil,” Proverbs 3:7 notes. “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:31). The line between confidence and pride is a fine one. Discernment is required.
In summary, modest swagger rooted in godly confidence, with the right heart motivations, could potentially align with biblical values. But arrogance, selfish ambition, or conceit stemming from pride should be avoided, according to Scripture. As in all things, wisdom, discernment, and depth of character are vital when assessing if one’s “swag” reflects the humble, righteous qualities that honor God.
Some key Bible passages that provide perspective on this issue include:
Proverbs 16:18 – Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Proverbs 29:23 – One’s pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.
Proverbs 3:34 – Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor.
Micah 6:8 – He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
1 Peter 5:5-6 – Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.
Philippians 2:3 – Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
Galatians 5:26 – Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
1 Corinthians 13:4 – Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant.
Colossians 3:12 – Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.
Ultimately, biblical “swagger” or confidence reflects the perfect swagger and confidence of Jesus Christ. He modeled assertion, boldness, and assurance in perfect measure – rooted in his complete obedience to and reliance on God the Father, motivated by a heart of service. As believers seek to emulate Christ, our swagger should mirror His – avoiding selfish pride while confidently relying on God’s strength and power at work within us.
As 2 Corinthians 10:17 declares, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” Any swagger a Christian displays should point not to ourselves but to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus as Lord.
When our confidence comes from knowing God’s love and grace, we can have a humble and sincere swagger that glorifies Him. Our assurance rests in Jesus’ accomplishments, not our own. This biblical swagger evidences the Spirit’s work in us, not fleshly pride.
In fact, many key biblical figures exhibited godly swagger. David strode boldly before Goliath, assured of God’s deliverance. Esther courageously approached the king to save her people. Paul confidently preached the gospel across the Roman world, undeterred by persecution. Their swagger stemmed from faith in a mighty God.
So biblical swagger differs drastically from worldly swagger. Scripture eschews arrogance and showy pride, instructing believers to walk humbly, looking to others’ interests first. But we can embrace swagger rooted in deep reverence for the Lord. This manifests in spiritual audacity, righteous courage, and godly confidence in carrying out His work.
Jesus Christ perfectly models this kingdom swagger. Though he possessed complete power and honor as God’s Son, Christ willingly took on flesh and lived as a servant. His spiritual confidence stemmed from existing eternally in the Father’s love. Believers should pursue that same holy swagger.
When our hope and identity rest entirely in Christ, we can swagger boldly as we live for Him. Our assurance springs from the inner strengthening of the Holy Spirit. And we focus not on exalting self but furthering God’s purposes.
This kingdom swagger displays itself through good deeds, spiritual victories, acts of service, bold evangelism, and a life poured out for Jesus. It reflects wonderful certainties like God’s sovereignty, Christ’s redemption, and the Spirit’s indwelling. Biblical swagger abandons self-glorification for boasting only in the Lord.
So yes, Christians can absolutely have swagger – when it stems from dependance on God and delight in Him. In fact, Scripture commends righteous swagger. Our trust is fully in the Lord, not ourselves. And our confidence serves to exalt Christ’s supremacy over all.
The key is cultivating swagger focused on Jesus, rooted in humility, bathed in prayer. When our assurance springs from abiding in Him, we can swagger boldly in proclaiming, serving, and obeying our King. Our confidence comes from crowned Lord we represent.
This kind of biblical swagger results naturally from understanding our identity in Christ. As children of the King, redeemed by Jesus, and sealed by the Spirit, we have endless reason to boast in God alone. Our swagger should reflect His heart and mission.
So go ahead, Christians – swagger on with courage and godly assurance! Just make sure your confidence is properly grounded in who God is, not who you are. Swagger in way that lifts high the name of Jesus, not yourself. Let His perfect swagger shine through you!
As the book of Jude declares, “Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” (Jude 1:24-25). Our swagger finds its home in His eternal glory.