Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer

As followers of Christ, we are called to set the standard and not simply follow the world.

I’ve heard the phrase, “Be the thermostat, not the thermometer,” and I really like it. One thing we are supposed to do as followers of Christ is be an example. We are not supposed to move and sway and do everything like the world does. We are supposed to set the standard for what God is calling us to do and not lower our own standards to what the world thinks is a standard.

I think that’s a good phrase to keep in mind, because a lot of times we make decisions or do things based on the worldly influence we’ve seen or been affected by. We let things affect us instead of having an effect on things.

Step Into the Uncomfortable

That’s what I really like about it. As Christians and believers, we need to step out into the uncomfortable areas and be a voice in the darkness. We are called to be the salt and the light (Matthew 5:13-16).

Lord, help us to stand up in the middle of anything going on, whether it be persecution in our daily lives, things that only feel like persecution, or any worldly pressure that pushes us away from you. Help us dig through the obstacles you put in our way and endure. Help us to have an effect on people and be the thermostat instead of being shaped by the effect others have on us. Help us to be a light in the world.

Every bit of Creation points back to its Maker. This one points to Matthew 5:16:

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.