Brenda’s Blog – November 21, 2017
“Are you a thermometer or a thermostat?”
I am Gram to nine grandchildren and two great-grands. As I pray for them I ask for protection, God’s saving grace, and peace. And as they get older I pray for them to make wise choices about friends. This is one of the questions they must answer in order to create healthy relationships.
I want them to know if they are a thermostat or a thermometer. What is the difference? A thermometer reflects the temperature in the room; a thermostat sets it. It is the same way in social situations.
Is it weak to be a thermometer? By no means. Think how critically important it is to determine if we have a fever – we need an accurate instrument which gives us a proper reading. Groups are the same way – they need those who feel temperature changes and alert the others. The danger comes when the thermostats are so strong they ignore any negative changes.
Thermostats can heat up or cool down activities. They are the ones who pull others along. They are the lead dogs. Therefore, it is vitally important for them to have a strong moral compass. Their natural strengths can be used for good or ill. Their charisma can move a group positively to achieve great things or their magnetism can lead others down a risky path.
Our society makes value judgments which elevate thermostats. They have a serious responsibility to themselves and others. Change makers carry the weight of leadership. But thermometers must use their discernment to alert without alarming. They are the monitors of social environments.
I know each of my grandchildren has a unique design, given by God to achieve their purpose. My prayer is for those who are thermostats to be shining examples of Godly leadership and those who are thermometers to have strength in reading situations and understanding when the temperature isn’t positive. My admonition to them is always “Be bold and of good courage in whatever God calls you to do.”