Stuck in the Mud
February 24th, 2010A Christian is sometimes called a “stick in the mud” because of their unwillingness to participate in parties and sinful activities the world considers acceptable. In all actuality, however, the origin of the phrase “stick in the mud” came from the earlier phrases “to stick in the mire” and “to stick in the briars.” These phrases refer to staying in an unpleasant or demeaning situation rather than dragging yourself out. When considered in this light, Christians aren’t stuck in the mud at all. In fact, we have been set free.
First, we have been set free from the mud of worldly desires. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus sets us free from the worry of earthly needs (cf. food, clothing, shelter). He tells us God will take care of us and focuses our attention on seeking His kingdom and His righteousness. Those stuck in the mud spend their time chasing worldly objects and money which will be lost, become obsolete, and perish with age (Matthew 6:19-21, Proverbs 23:4-5). Those stuck in the mud do not realize that our lives do not consist of an abundance of things (Luke 12:15-21). Those stuck in the mud can never enjoy a Christian life because they make themselves enemies of God (James 4:4), they cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24), and what little they would gain ends up getting choked out by the worries of this world and the deceitfulness of riches (Matthew 13:22).
Second, we have been set free from the mire of sin. The consequences of sin in this world can be numerous (Proverbs 1:15-19, 24-32, Romans 1:27). The next time you watch a television show, consider the problems the plot revolves around. Usually it is sin. They told a lie and go to great lengths to defend it or keep from being found out. They gossip about someone who finds out. They refuse to apologize when they are wrong. Most of their problems would just go away if they followed the principles of Christianity. In addition, to all these consequences of sin, there is eternal punishment as well (cf. Romans 1:18-32, 1 Corinthians 6:1-9, Galatians 5:19-21, Revelation 21:8). We have been set free from this mire and can instead have the peace of God in this life (Philippians 4:6-9, 1 Timothy 4:8) and can look forward to eternal paradise with God (1 Peter 1:3-9).
Third, we have been set free from the briars of death. Those stuck in the world find themselves in a prickly situation. They have devoted themselves to this life, but this life is going to end. Many have a dread and fear of death. The sting of death, however, is sin. Jesus has freed us from the consequences of sin so that we have no condemnation in Him (Romans 8:1-4) and given us victory over death so that it no longer has any sting (1 Corinthians 15:53-57). We do not have to grieve the way the world does (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). To a Christian, death is just a blip in our life, not the end of all of our hopes, dreams, and the fruit of our work.
As Christians, we will be criticized by those with worldly ambitions and goals, but we need to remember the great blessings we have been given in this life and focus on the reward of heaven. Remember, Jesus didn’t come to steal our joy, He came so that we could have an abundant, full, and rewarding life (John 10:10). Don’t let those who are stuck in the mud drag you down into their predicament.
Extra Biblical Sources: Evan Morris, The Word Detective; Reader’s Digest, October 2006. Pg. 17
