MIKE’S MUSINGS ….

“It’s Not Easy Bein’ Green”

   Sesame Street never was a favorite in our house. Only occasionally would the boys or our grandchildren watch it; it just didn’t appeal to them. So the title of this musing is not based on the show, but on a tune Kermit the Frog made famous. If you’ve never read the lyrics, I strongly suggest you Google them and read them!

   Many Christians seem to be “wannabes” instead of being content in serving God to the best of their abilities. (Luke 17:7–10) Don’t misunderstand: there’s nothing sinful about honest endeavors to improve and/or increase one’s abilities in the service of King Jesus. But to aspire to be something you’re not simply for the sake of “recognition” by others is sinful! The understanding of modesty is not limited to one’s wardrobe. Modesty, defined by Webster, means, “1. Freedom from conceit or vanity, 2. Propriety in dress, speech, and conduct.” Strong, the accepted authority of Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic, says of modest, “orderly, that is, decorous.” We note modesty is generated by attitude. While the word “modest” is found only once in Scripture (1 Timothy 2:9), the Scripture is replete with teaching us proper decorum in our attire, speech, and conduct!

   Christians need to realize each one of us is important to the whole and need not call attention to ourselves as if to be somehow “more important” than another. We are to have the same care one for another (1 Corinthians 12:24 – 25) and condescend to men of low estate (vs. 16) rather than be condescending. “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” (Romans 12:3)

   As Kermit the Frog would say, “It’s not easy being green.” (Did you read the lyrics yet?) To change it up a bit, “It’s not that easy being a Christian. We’re looked over for something more sparkling. Some think us less important or ordinary. But it’s what we are; we ARE ordinary; it’s beautiful, and it’s what I want to be!” As long as I’m a part of the body of Christ, His kingdom, His church, His bride (all synonymous terms), I am content! I’m happy to do what I can as I can for Him, and never for self-glory. And therefore, I muse on that delightful reality!