Sam is a new temp at work. Sam is an outspoken Christian, studying to become a youth pastor. His parents are missionaries. I like Sam, but he drives me and everyone else crazy.

Why?

Because he ceaselessly apologizes for every possible offense, mistake, or poorly breathed breath.

Sam is competent, but he comes off as pathetic, timid, and frankly rather irritating. He is the definition of a Nice Churchian Boy(tm).

Don’t be like Sam. Own your mistakes, but only if they are actual mistakes. If someone gives your critical feedback on your performance, don’t apologize: thank them for the feedback. It is much stronger and frankly more believable that you actually understood what was said.

If you forget to follow through on a commitment and your wife nags you about it, the same applies. Thank her for reminding you, fix it, and move on. Don’t apologize unless you seriously screwed up. Even then, don’t apologize: repent. It’s a different thing and more meaningful, helpful, and biblical.