Christian Living

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The Conquest
© 2007

by

Stephen A. Peterson


Navy Petty Officer Robert Newton knew he should never say “Oh, God” unless he really meant to be talking to God in prayer or doing so in a respectful manner. However, being aboard ship hundreds of sailors who made reference to the Almighty in this and a variety of other inappropriate expressive ways made it difficult for him to catch himself saying “Oh, God”. Petty Officer Newton realized he needed a strategy in order to avoid taking God’s Name in vain. “Oh, no!” “Oh, shoot!” “Oh, darn it” seemed more appropriate alternatives. So he would do this only to fail during moments of stress and strain.

Two hours following his prayful encounter it happened. When a subordinate left a fuel container dangerously close to an engine system, it came out. He realized he said “Oh, God” in horror. It was at that point Petty Officer Newton discovered a new way of making amends to the Lord for bad behavioral outbursts. His exclamation, “Oh, God” became the beginning of a spontaneous prayer. After “Oh, God” he would say “please help me not to lose my head in stressful moments and to praise Your Most Holy Name all the days of my life. Forgive me of my sin and sins. This I pray my most merciful and compassionate Father. Amen.”

What surprised Petty Officer Newton about his new technique was that when he let an “Oh, God” slip out; it was during those times of anger, fear, surprise and frustration. He also learned was a time to call on God for His assistance and help. In the coming weeks, he was able to overcome what was once a bad habit to be used as a reminder of Whom he needed to turn to in his weaker moments.

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