1 Minute Daily Devotions
April 27, 2008
Thermometer Or Thermostat?
"And who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." - 1 John 5:5
Have you ever thought about the difference between a thermometer and a thermostat? A thermometer changes with circumstances--it reacts. A thermostat changes the circumstances--it regulates.
The same could be said for the way people respond to life's challenges. Some let circumstances control them and they often feel like victims. But others experience life on a more even keel. Circumstances may become difficult, but they're constantly overcoming those difficult circumstances. They weather the storms with the confidence that circumstances have no power to defeat them.
Which are you? A thermometer, constantly up and down? Or a thermostat, strong and unshakeable?
I find that people who have a strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ experience great strength and inner peace no matter what their circumstances. They don't see themselves as victims, but always as overcomers. It's a real key to successful living.
Comments on this Devotion
From Bob on Apr 27th:
I cannot think of a better message during this current economic and political depression.
From Janice on Apr 27th:
The devotion asks which are you, a thermometer which is up and down or a thermostat which is strong and unshakeable. I think Jesus has to get the credit for being the thermostat within Christians. We are thermometers when we take our eyes off of Him and forget the power He has over our lives. When we feel His love above all else that happens in life then it takes the edge off of circumstances and we do not get bounced up and down by our feelings of the moment. I need reminders daily of the place Jesus holds in my life and that is why Bible reading is so important. Also it is why Scripture memorization is important. Jesus is always there when His words are in my heart and on my mind. I definitely want to be controlled by the thermostat.
From julie on Apr 27th:
To share what is in my heart,I get through circumstances, but I am not always strong about it. I know when times get tough or life isn't what you want, I can back away from God, not blame Him, but just back off. Lately,I am trying to find my way again, trying to be who GOd wants me to be and not what people want. I sure would appreciate any prayer I can get. It is especially hard because I have four children looking up to me and I am worried about the messages i am sending them.
From Janice on Apr 28th:
Julie, I did say a prayer for you. You are so wise to be able to know where you are at with God. I think some people might just have an uneasy feeling but just let it go without realizing they need to do something to get closer to God again. Are you able to do daily devotions with your children? There is a good book for the younger ones, The One Year Book of Devotions for Preschoolers, which I suggest. When the young ones have God on their mind then they will be persistent in asking you questions so you can not help but have God on your mind. God bless you and your family!
From julie on Apr 28th:
Thanks Janice, I really appreciate your advice .