I’ve got something on my mind that I think you’ll find both amusing and enlightening. It’s about the concept of being a “stooge” and how we can sometimes unwittingly play that role in our Christian walk. Have you ever heard of the old comedy show, “The Three Stooges”? Let’s dive into that for a bit and see what lessons we can draw from it.

“The Three Stooges” was a slapstick comedy act that became wildly popular in the mid-20th century. The trio—Moe, Larry, and Curly—were known for their outrageous antics, physical comedy, and a general sense of bumbling through life. They often found themselves in ridiculous situations, causing mayhem wherever they went. They weren’t necessarily stupid, but they certainly did stupid things. Their behavior was characterized by short-sighted decisions, lack of coordination, and an uncanny ability to get themselves and others into trouble. People laughed at them, not with them, because they constantly made fools of themselves.

Now, let’s think about that in the context of our faith. As Christians, we are called to be wise, discerning, and a light to the world. Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV), “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Our behavior should reflect the wisdom and love of Christ, not the foolishness of a stooge.

Let’s consider some ways we might be stooges in our faith. One way is through our speech. James 3:9-10 (NIV) says, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” When we gossip, slander, or speak harshly, we taint our Christian witness. People watch how we speak, and if our words don’t align with the love and grace of Christ, we become stooges, undermining the very message we are trying to convey.

Another way we might be stooges is through our actions. The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV), “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” When we make poor decisions, act impulsively, or fail to consider the consequences of our actions, we are not living wisely. This can lead others to question our integrity and the sincerity of our faith.

Think about Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples. He had a moment of stooge-like behavior that had serious consequences. In Matthew 26:69-75 (NIV), we read about Peter’s denial of Jesus: “Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him. ‘You also were with Jesus of Galilee,’ she said. But he denied it before them all. ‘I don’t know what you’re talking about,’ he said. Then he went out to the gateway, where another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, ‘This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth.’ He denied it again, with an oath: ‘I don’t know the man!’ After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, ‘Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.’ Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, ‘I don’t know the man!’ Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: ‘Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.’ And he went outside and wept bitterly.”

Peter, in a moment of fear and confusion, acted foolishly and denied knowing Jesus. However, his story didn’t end there. After Jesus’ resurrection, Peter was restored and became a bold witness for Christ, as seen in Acts 2:14-41. This shows us that even when we act like stooges, there is hope for redemption and restoration if we turn back to Jesus.

So, how can we prevent ourselves from being stooges in our faith? First, we must be rooted in God’s Word. Psalm 119:105 (NIV) says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Regularly reading and meditating on Scripture will help us grow in wisdom and discernment. Second, we need to pray for guidance. James 1:5 (NIV) promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Seeking God’s wisdom through prayer will help us make better decisions.

Third, we must surround ourselves with godly influences. Proverbs 13:20 (NIV) says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Being in community with other believers who encourage and challenge us will help us stay on the right path.

Let’s also look at the story of King Saul. Saul started well but eventually became a stooge in his disobedience to God. In 1 Samuel 13, Saul foolishly offered a burnt offering instead of waiting for Samuel as he was instructed. This act of impatience and disobedience cost him the kingdom. 1 Samuel 13:13-14 (NIV) says, “You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people because you have not kept the Lord’s command.” Saul’s foolish actions had severe consequences.

Being a stooge in our faith not only affects us but can also impact those around us. Think about Jonah, who ran from God’s call to go to Nineveh. His disobedience led to a storm that endangered the lives of the sailors with him. Jonah 1:12 (NIV) says, “Pick me up and throw me into the sea,” he replied, “and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you.” Jonah’s foolish decision affected others, but once he obeyed God, he was used mightily to bring repentance to Nineveh.

So, dear friend, let’s strive not to be stooges in our faith. Let’s be mindful of our words and actions, seek God’s wisdom, and surround ourselves with godly influences. Remember, even when we falter, God’s grace is sufficient, and He can redeem our mistakes.

Philippians 2:14-15 (NIV) encourages us, “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.” Let’s aim to shine brightly for Jesus, avoiding the pitfalls of foolishness and instead walking in wisdom and grace.

As we go through our day, let’s keep our focus on Christ and His teachings, ensuring that our lives reflect His love and truth. And when we do stumble, let’s turn back to Him quickly, knowing that He is always ready to forgive and restore.

Blessings to you as you navigate this day with wisdom and grace. Let’s leave the stooge behavior behind and walk in the fullness of life that Jesus offers.