Thermometers? Thermostats?

It’s not a difficult decision. With the arrival of warmer days comes the need to turn on the air conditioner. In our family that begins the battle to control the thermostat.

On a typical day, a family member walks into the house, turns off the ceiling fan, and adjusts the thermostat. In response, I say, “Get a jacket,” while I turn the fan and air conditioner back on, and threaten to install a lock box over the wonderful temperature-regulating device. The exercise reminds me of a question a preacher once posed, “Are you a thermometer or a thermostat?”

A thermometer simply reports the temperature of the atmosphere, its mercury rising and falling accordingly; while a thermostat sets the temperature.

A thermometer Christian gauges the atmosphere of the room then adjusts his opinions, language and attitude to reflect the majority. His actions mirror that of the group. Thermometer Christians conform to their surroundings.

In comparison, a thermostat Christian changes the environment. He does not fluctuate or compromise his values regardless of who is present. Additionally, the thermostat Christian maintains a cool head even among hot tempers. Thermostat Christians transform their surroundings.

Without a connection to a power source, an air conditioner’s thermostat is ineffective. Thermostat Christians, people who desire to change the atmosphere of a home, workplace, school, or world know they must remain connected to God, the source of all power. Their ability to remain steadfast even if all around them shifts comes from the One referred to in Jeremiah 32:17, “Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.” Jeremiah 32:17

So, are you a thermometer Christian or a thermostat Christian? It shouldn’t be a difficult decision.

Ronny may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.