Thermometer or Thermostat: Faith That Changes the Atmosphere

Summary

The preacher contrasts two simple instruments: a thermometer that only reads the temperature, and a thermostat that reads it and then sets to work changing it. People are the same. Some only notice and report how hard a situation is, while others, by the power of God, step in to change it.

Three Scripture stories make the difference clear. When Goliath defied Israel, the soldiers measured the threat and fled in fear, but David, filled with the Spirit, asked who this man was to defy the living God and went out to change the outcome. Paul and Silas, chained in a dark cell, did not despair but sang and shifted the whole atmosphere around them. Of the twelve spies, ten spread a bad report - we cannot - while Caleb and Joshua declared that the giants would be bread for them, because the Lord was with them.

A thermometer heart spreads fear, poisons others, complains against its leaders and even against God, and longs to turn back to Egypt - and so it robs itself of the promised blessing. The pastor offers three steps: see the problem honestly, ask how it can be solved, and ask what you yourself can do. Guard your heart, and become light and hope in a world that has neither.

Key Points

• A thermometer only reports the temperature; a thermostat changes it - decide which one you will be.
• David faced Goliath not by measuring the danger but by trusting the living God who had anointed him.
• Paul and Silas sang in prison and transformed the spiritual atmosphere around everyone listening.
• Ten spies spread fear and unbelief, but Caleb and Joshua saw the same giants and trusted God's presence.
• A fearful, complaining heart poisons others, blames leaders, and pulls people back toward Egypt.
• Guard your heart and refuse to let offense, disappointment, and darkness move in.
• Do not stop at naming the problem; ask how it can change and what God is calling you to do.