March 1, 20206. BE A THERMOSTAT

SET THE ATMOSPHERE

Most of us are really good at noticing what’s wrong when we walk into a room. We may feel the tension or sense the negativity in conversations around us.

We can tell when is not quite right.

That’s what a thermometer does. It takes a reading and reports it.

A thermostat does something more. It decides what the temperature should be and then works quietly to change the environment that it's been placed in.

We have been given that same choice every day. We can comment on the mood, complain about the culture, or judge the people around us. The other thing we could do is choose to lead with our attitude, our words, and our actions.

Being a thermostat doesn’t mean ignoring the problems. It just means, that as a human, created by God, we can respond differently. Choosing kindness when criticism would be easier. Choosing hope when negativity feels normal, and choosing to be courage when it would be safer to stay silent.

You may not be able to control the whole room, but you always control the temperature you bring into it.

THE BIBLE TEACHES US

Romans 12:21 says “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

PRAY

God, please help me notice the moments when I slip into complaining.

Give me the courage to set a better tone with my words and with my actions.

When things feel negative or difficult, remind me that I can still choose to be good. Today, help me be someone who changes the atmosphere for the better.

Amen.

THINK

What kind of “temperature” do I usually bring into a room?

Where do I tend to act like a thermometer instead of a thermostat?

What is one small way I can set a better tone today?