How The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck Can Help You in Your Biblical Walk
- So Am I Books
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
How The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck Can Help You in Your Biblical Walk*
At first glance, Mark Manson’s The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* seems irreverent, even at odds with a biblical worldview. The title alone raises eyebrows in Christian circles. But beyond the profanity and pop psychology lies a surprisingly profound principle—one that can actually support a stronger, more focused walk with God.
Here’s how Manson’s message, when filtered through Scripture, can actually help refine your faith journey.
1. Choosing What Really Matters (Matthew 6:33)
Manson’s central message is not about apathy, but about choosing what to care about. He argues that our lives are limited, and we can’t afford to waste energy on everything. Biblically, this principle is echoed in Yahwashi’s words: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).
In your walk with God, not giving a “f*ck” about every distraction, opinion, or worldly goal frees you to pursue what truly matters—God’s will. In this sense, spiritual maturity involves learning what not to care about.
2. Freedom from People-Pleasing (Galatians 1:10)
One of the book’s liberating ideas is that you don’t need to live according to others’ expectations. Manson writes, “You can't be an important and life-changing presence for some people without also being a joke and an embarrassment to others.”
This hits home when you consider Paul’s words in Galatians 1:10: “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? … If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”In your Christian walk, especially in a secular or lukewarm environment, you’ll need courage to obey God, even when others don’t understand. Manson’s advice—filtered through Paul’s lens—reminds you to care about God's opinion more than man's.
3. Accepting Hardship and Growth (James 1:2–4)
Manson says that suffering is inevitable and that we should choose the suffering that’s worth it. That’s remarkably close to James 1:2-4, where believers are told to “consider it pure joy... whenever you face trials... because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
Instead of avoiding discomfort or pain (which many modern Christians are tempted to do), Manson encourages a posture of embracing meaningful struggle. From a biblical standpoint, the trials that grow your faith are exactly the ones worth “giving a f*ck” about.
4. Rejecting Entitlement (Luke 9:23)
A recurring theme in the book is rejecting the idea that we’re special or entitled. Manson argues that embracing our limitations makes us more grounded and responsible.
This parallels Jesus’ call in Luke 9:23: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”Christianity isn’t about self-exaltation or comfort. It’s about death to self and a life fully surrendered. Letting go of the world’s obsession with self-importance aligns directly with Manson’s critique of entitlement.
5. Living Honestly (Ephesians 4:25)
Manson’s brutally honest tone might be jarring, but it points to something biblical: the power of truth. Ephesians 4:25 says, “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor...”
Being honest about your sin, your limitations, and your need for grace is central to the Christian life. Manson calls people to own their choices instead of blaming others—something the Bible demands even more directly, especially in repentance and transformation.
Conclusion: Filtering the Message Through Faith
While The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* isn’t a Christian book, its core principle—intentionality—resonates with Scripture. The Bible teaches us to fix our hearts on what truly matters, to die to self, and to live for God's glory, not people’s approval.
So yes, you can learn something from Manson’s raw, secular voice—if you keep your spiritual filter on. Use his call to ruthless focus and honest self-assessment as a tool to sharpen your biblical priorities. Ultimately, you’re not called to give a f*ck about everything—but to care deeply about the One who gave everything for you.
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