The Criminal's Belief System
CHAPTER 6

"Whatever!”

What do people mean when they answer with … “whatever”? Anyone who hears you say it knows you don’t give a hoot about any decision that needs to be made. The problem is not the word itself. The problem is that any time the word is used it means you are not making a choice — and life is all about small choices. Seemingly small decisions are a part of each and every day, and it is easy to ignore them. When the word “whatever” is used as a reply, you are simply not making a decision.
What is a person really thinking when he/she uses the “whatever” word?

The “whatever” word is also sometimes used as a “fronting” tactic by criminals.  In this case, people use the word to imply they don’t care one way or the other, but they’re actually manipulating that person.  They’re saying they’ll go along with you on this, but then you’re going to owe them big time.  They’re playing a role, doing something they don’t really want to do in order to bank a favor, to get something back later in return.

From another viewpoint, the “whatever” word takes away responsibility for an action. It wasn’t their idea, it wasn’t their decision, they’re just going along for the ride.  If it all goes south and the law gets involved - it wasn’t their fault. 

 “Whatever” doesn’t work with God. We don’t get an opportunity for “fronting” with Him, and we won’t be able to shirk responsibility when we get caught.  He alone makes the rules and determines truth.  He requires a definite decision from us one way or the other, and there are only two options.   Deuteronomy 30:19 says, “I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life that both thou and thy seed may live.”

 
 
1.
2.
True
False
3.
 
 
4.
No one will ever know the choices you make.
I ask heaven and earth to be witnesses.
I ask heaven and earth to bless you.
None of the above.
5.
 
 
 
 
 
6.
 
 
 
 
7.
Yes
No
 
8.
 
 
 
9.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.
 
 
  * Required

Continue to Chapter 7

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