Boosted
There's something happening in America's retail spaces that most shoppers never notice. Between the bright lights and friendly greeters, an invisible war rages daily. They call it "boosting" – a term that might sound positive but masks a destructive reality that costs businesses billions and affects us all.
Boosting isn't random shoplifting. It's calculated, coordinated, and carried out by networks of professionals. The people who physically steal the merchandise are literally called "boosters" – they're just one gear in a well-oiled criminal machine. They target specific items, often working in teams, creating distractions while others sweep merchandise into specially designed bags or clothing.
The stolen goods move quickly through a chain of handlers, ending up sold online, at flea markets, or through other "fences" who specialize in moving hot merchandise. It's retail's underground economy, and it's booming.
What's wild is the scale of this problem. The Department of Homeland Security estimates that organized retail crime costs federal and state governments nearly $15 billion in lost tax revenue. That gets passed to consumers – about $500 annually per American in additional costs. That's not pocket change, friends.
Retail employees aren't just there to fold clothes and stock shelves. They've become unwitting soldiers in this battle. Modern training programs now teach them to identify suspicious behaviors without putting themselves at risk.
"The Triangle Offense" isn't just for basketball anymore. The best loss prevention strategies operate on three principles:
1. Advanced surveillance systems and AI to capture evidence
2. Employee training to identify suspicious behaviors
3. Collaboration with law enforcement agencies
But here's the catch – violence is increasing. According to the National Retail Federation, 81% of retailers reported that organized retail crime offenders have grown more violent, with 67% noting increased aggression compared to previous years. Employees are taught to observe and report, never confront. Their safety comes first.
But there's a deeper metaphor here that's been on my mind lately. How often do we experience "boosting" in our personal lives? I'm not talking about theft, but about those people who take without giving, who drain our energy, time, and joy without contributing anything meaningful in return.
You know the type – the friend who only calls when they need something, the colleague who takes credit for your work, the relationship that leaves you feeling emotionally bankrupt. These are life's "boosters," and they operate with the same calculated precision as their retail counterparts.
In Proverbs 20:17, we're reminded: "Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel." The immediate gratification of taking what isn't earned – whether merchandise or emotional capital – always leads to emptiness.
And just as retail employees need training to identify boosters, we need wisdom to recognize when we're being emotionally looted. Psalm 119:18 asks, "Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law." Sometimes we need divine clarity to see what's happening right in front of us.
Retailers invest millions in security systems to protect their assets. Shouldn't we do the same for our hearts and minds?
Philippians 4:8 offers a powerful framework: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
This is your personal security system, a filter that helps you discern who and what deserves access to your inner life.
Just as retail employees are taught to work in teams to combat boosting, we need community. Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." When we surround ourselves with people who add value rather than subtract it, we create a defense against life's boosters.
The most progressive retail organizations don't just focus on catching boosters; they work to understand and address the root causes. Similarly, our response to those who take from us shouldn't end at creating boundaries.
Matthew 5:44 challenges us with: "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This doesn't mean allowing yourself to be continuously exploited, but it does suggest that our response should ultimately aim toward healing rather than punishment.
I've found that some of life's "boosters" are operating from places of deep woundedness. Their taking is often an attempt to fill internal voids. Understanding this doesn't excuse the behavior, but it helps us respond with compassion while maintaining healthy boundaries.
When retailers experience significant losses from boosting, they don't just write them off and move on. They analyze what happened, strengthen their defenses, and work toward recovery.
Isaiah 58:12 speaks to this beautifully: "Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings."
After experiencing emotional or spiritual boosting, recovery isn't just possible; it's promised. The process of rebuilding after loss can actually leave us stronger than before.
Whether we're talking about retail crime or personal relationships, boosting thrives in environments of unawareness. The more we understand the tactics, recognize the warning signs, and implement wise prevention strategies, the less vulnerable we become.
Proverbs 4:23 puts it simply: "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." This might be the most important anti-boosting strategy of all.
In retail and in life, what we protect prospers. What we neglect gets boosted. The choice, ultimately, is ours.
-Deck
Ride-or-Die Connections
Hey, fam - let’s talk deck real talk.
We’re diving into those connections that don’t care about our bank accounts, our follower count, or where we’re from. We’re talking about those relationships that are pure, unfiltered, and totally non-negotiable.
There’s this biblical wisdom in Proverbs 17:17 that hits different: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” That’s not just words - that’s our lifestyle.
When we say “I got you,” we mean it from our core. It’s about showing up when:
The lights are low
The odds are against us
Our world’s falling apart
It doesn’t matter if we’re rolling in cash or counting pennies. True connection? That’s the currency we can’t buy.
Our Ride-or-Die Mentality
We’ve learned that life isn’t about the highlight reel. It’s about who stands beside us during the behind-the-scenes moments. Who’s there when the cameras aren’t rolling? Who believes in us when we’ve stopped believing in ourselves?
That’s our non-negotiable.
What Non-Negotiable Really Means for Us
Unconditional Support: No judgment, just pure acceptance
Consistent Presence: Not just when it’s convenient
Radical Honesty: Telling each other what we need to hear, not just what we want to hear
Our Scripture Speaks Truth
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 nails it: “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Our Deck Takeaway
Life’s gonna throw curveballs. Our relationships are our safety net. Whether it’s a friend who’ll bail us out at midnight, a partner who sees our soul, or a passion that keeps us grounded - those are our non-negotiables.
So here’s our challenge: Be that person. Find those people. Create those connections that don’t have a price tag.
Because at the end of the day, we got each other. And that’s what’s truly deck.
— Us
You Don't Get to Love Us: Journey of Uncompromising Standards and Spiritual Integrity
Hey fam, let's dive deep into something that's been burning in our heart. We've walked through life's crazy journey and learned that love isn't some universal free pass for anyone to casually stroll into our world. It's about standards – biblical standards that cut deeper than surface-level connections, social status, or superficial expectations.
We've seen every corner of existence, from glitzy Hollywood sets to quiet moments of reflection, and here's the unfiltered truth: people, places, and things don't get automatic VIP access to our inner circle. Whether you're swimming in wealth or counting every last penny, there's a line – and we're drawing it with permanent marker. This isn't about superiority or looking down on anyone; it's about protecting our peace, our purpose, and the sacred space of our personal journey.
Scripture becomes our ultimate blueprint here. Proverbs 4:23 drops a truth bomb that resonates to our core: "Guard your heart above all else, for everything you do flows from it." We're not playing emotional Russian roulette with our spirit. If you can't meet the standard of genuine respect, authentic integrity, and meaningful connection, you're not getting past our carefully constructed emotional boundaries. It's not personal – it's spiritual self-preservation.
Our standards aren't about building walls or being emotionally unavailable. They're about understanding that our worth isn't determined by who wants to be around us, but by the intentional choices we make about who we allow to influence our path. We've witnessed firsthand how compromise can slowly erode your spirit, how letting just anyone into your inner sanctum can drain your energy and completely derail the purpose we've been called to pursue. Every connection is a potential gateway – and we're not leaving that gateway unguarded.
This journey isn't about being difficult or creating unnecessary drama. It's about being profoundly intentional. We're walking a path that demands selective connection, wisdom beyond our years, and a spiritual discernment that goes far deeper than surface-level interactions. James 1:5 promises wisdom to those who seek it, and we're actively asking for the supernatural ability to know exactly who gets the privilege of being close to us. Rich, poor, famous, completely unknown – none of that external stuff matters. What truly counts is the condition of your heart, your integrity, and your alignment with something far greater than temporary human validation.
So here's our ultimate declaration: you don't get to love us just because you want to. Love is a privilege earned through consistent authenticity, not a right granted by mere proximity or desire. We're constructing something sacred, something purposeful, and we're not letting anyone or anything compromise the blueprint we've been given. Our standards aren't restrictions – they're protection, our boundary, our spiritual defense mechanism. We're building a life of purpose, and not everyone gets a front-row seat to that journey. Take it or leave it – we're completely at peace either way. Our worth isn't determined by who stays or who goes, but by the unwavering commitment to our calling and the standards that protect it.
-Deck
Nuanced Ethics of White Lies: Faithful Examination
We believe it's time to address a complex moral question within our community—the place and purpose of what are commonly called "white lies." These seemingly minor departures from absolute truth permeate our daily interactions: assuring someone their effort was appreciated when improvements were clearly needed, or claiming punctuality when we're running behind. As people of faith, we must carefully examine this practice through biblical principles while acknowledging the nuanced reality of human relationships.
We acknowledge that Scripture provides clear guidance regarding truthfulness. Proverbs 16:24 reminds us that "Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." In our interpretation, this verse speaks to the manner of our communication. We maintain that while truth must be our foundation, the delivery of that truth requires wisdom and discretion. Context matters significantly in determining whether a statement serves to build up or tear down our brothers and sisters.
In our experience ministering to our community, we've witnessed situations where absolute, unfiltered honesty delivered without care has caused unnecessary harm. Yet we've also seen the damage caused by persistent patterns of deception. Romans 14:19 instructs us to "pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding." We believe this biblical principle requires discernment—sometimes peace and upbuilding may indeed be better served by softening certain truths or emphasizing the positive aspects of a situation.
The biblical instruction in Ephesians 4:25 to "put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor" remains our guiding principle. However, we understand this command exists within the broader context of building a loving community. Small acts of verbal kindness that prioritize relationship preservation without causing harm or leading someone astray on significant matters may, in certain contexts, align with the spirit of Scripture's emphasis on loving our neighbors.
Colossians 4:6 guides us that our speech should "always be gracious, seasoned with salt." We interpret this as a call for discernment—speech that preserves relationships and enhances understanding, even when complete candor might be unnecessarily hurtful. The seasoning of salt implies wisdom in communication, knowing when certain truths need full expression and when they might be tempered with grace.
As far as we're concerned, the intention behind our words is crucial, but never sufficient alone to justify deception. Philippians 2:3-4 calls us to "do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." We believe this principle establishes a clear test: Does our communication serve ourselves or truly serve others? Are we withholding truth to avoid personal discomfort, or are we carefully crafting our words to genuinely protect another's dignity? This discernment is deck—aligned with scriptural wisdom that recognizes both the value of truth and the complexity of human relationships. Context and nuance are indeed key, guiding us to communicate in ways that honor both truthfulness and compassion in each unique situation we face.
-Deck
Standing Together: Our Call to Authentic Christian Masculinity
Look, we've all learned something crucial on our collective journey as men of faith - God created us with definite purpose and divine design. Scripture tells us in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14, "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love." That's our blueprint right there. We're called to be vigilant, unwavering, and authentically masculine while operating from a foundation of love. It doesn't matter who we choose to love or what circles we move in - our identity as strong, independent men of Christ remains unchanged and uncompromised.
There's this widespread misconception that being Christian men means we're supposed to be doormats. That couldn't be further from the truth! Jesus wasn't passive when he overturned the tables in the temple. He didn't just stand by when he saw exploitation happening. In Matthew 21:12-13, He drove out those who were taking advantage of others, saying, "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of robbers." That's our example of righteous dominance - not dominating others, but standing firm together against what's wrong and refusing to be manipulated or exploited in any way.
We've faced our share of people trying to take advantage of us in our various walks of life, and we've learned that setting boundaries isn't un-Christian - it's essential to our witness. Proverbs 25:26 warns, "Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked." When we don't stand up for ourselves, we're not just hurting our own testimony; we're clouding the waters of what Christian masculinity truly looks like for generations to come. It's not about aggression; it's about conviction and the collective courage to live by it.
As men of Christ, we must remember that our strength isn't about dominating others - it's about protecting the vulnerable and standing against injustice. Psalm 82:3-4 commands us: "Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked." This is our mandate - to use our God-given masculine strength for protection, not oppression. When we stand firm in who we are, we're better equipped to fulfill this calling together.
We live in a culture that's often confused about masculinity. Some portray it as toxic and dangerous, while others embrace a distorted version that glorifies aggression and selfishness. But we know the truth - biblical masculinity is neither weak nor abusive. It's sacrificial leadership modeled after Christ himself, who laid down his life for his bride, the Church. Ephesians 5:25 reminds us, "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." Our dominance isn't self-serving; it's self-sacrificing for the good of others.
Let's be honest with ourselves - we've sometimes been reluctant to stand firm because we fear being labeled as intolerant or aggressive. But there's a profound difference between aggression and assertiveness. Assertiveness is about clear communication, respecting both ourselves and others, and maintaining healthy boundaries. Jesus demonstrated this perfectly when dealing with the Pharisees in Matthew 23. He didn't shy away from speaking truth, but He did so without resorting to violence or cruelty. We can learn from His example of righteous assertiveness.
Our identities as men aren't diminished by showing compassion and tenderness. In fact, these qualities enhance our masculinity when balanced with strength and conviction. King David was both a mighty warrior and a sensitive poet. He danced before the Lord with all his might in 2 Samuel 6:14 and wrote beautiful psalms expressing deep emotion. We embrace this holistic vision of masculinity that integrates both strength and sensitivity, courage and compassion.
We must acknowledge that standing firm requires community. None of us can maintain our resolve in isolation. Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." When we face pressure to compromise or allow ourselves to be violated or exploited, we need brothers who will strengthen us and remind us of our identity in Christ. We're stronger together, holding each other accountable and encouraging one another to live out authentic Christian masculinity.
The reality we face is that the world will try to define us by its standards. We'll be told that our conviction is bigotry, our strength is toxic, and our boundaries are selfish. But Romans 12:2 calls us to a different standard: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." We don't take our cues from culture; we take them from Christ. And Christ never allowed Himself to be manipulated by others' opinions or exploited for their agendas. He remained true to His mission and values - that's the model we follow together.
When we stand up against exploitation, we're not just protecting ourselves; we're preserving our ability to serve others effectively. If we allow others to violate our boundaries and exploit our good nature, we'll eventually burn out and have nothing left to give. Jesus modeled the importance of boundaries by regularly withdrawing to pray (Luke 5:16) and sometimes refusing requests that would have derailed His mission. We follow His example by establishing healthy limits that enable sustainable service.
Our masculinity isn't about fitting into rigid stereotypes of what men should be. Some of us are natural athletes, others are intellectuals or artists. Some lead with bold confidence, others with quiet strength. But regardless of our personalities and gifts, we all share the call to stand firm in our faith and refuse exploitation. 1 Peter 5:8-9 warns us, "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith." This resistance requires the full spectrum of masculine strength, in all its diverse expressions.
As Christian men, we refuse to be manipulated by shame. The enemy often tries to make us feel ashamed of our masculine traits or our desire to stand firm. But 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." We embrace this balanced formula: power tempered by love, guided by self-control. This isn't something to be ashamed of; it's God's design for us to embody and celebrate together.
Here's what we want every Christian man to know: We don't have to choose between being kind and being strong. Jesus embodied both perfectly. He washed His disciples' feet in John 13, showing incredible humility, but He also boldly confronted hypocrisy and never allowed Himself to be manipulated by others' expectations. That's our collective calling - to love deeply but stand firmly. To serve willingly but refuse exploitation. To walk with compassion while maintaining the backbone God intentionally built into us as men.
Remember what Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:10: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might." Our strength isn't our own - it comes from Him, and that's what makes our Christian masculinity truly unshakeable. We stand together, brothers in Christ, unwilling to be violated or exploited, yet committed to serving others with the gentle strength that defined our Savior. This is the masculine legacy we're building - not based on cultural stereotypes or toxic behaviors, but on the perfect example of the God-Man, Jesus Christ, who was both the Lion of Judah and the Lamb who was slain. Together, we follow His lead.
-Deck
