We all have people in our life who are more like a thermostat than a thermometer.

In other words, these people generally influence others rather than being influenced by others.

This can be positive or negative. If you work with someone who is always complaining, you may find yourself complaining when there isn’t really that much to complain about. You may have a friend who always worries about the future, you may notice that those around this person start to worry about their futures as well. On the other hand, I work with a man who comes to work every morning singing and whistling, always greeting everyone he walks past. I watch the people he encounters and they suddenly seem to have a better attitude.

Gratitude is something that reciprocates and reproduces. This isn’t the only reason to be grateful, but it sure effects other people in a positive way when we are grateful. Christians should be thermostats, not thermometers when it comes to attitudes. We should be able to lift those around us with the way we approach triumphs, trials, and tragedies. It’s not always easy, and we will fail from time to time, but we should strive to be influencers. If you are not a Christian, this idea is still powerful. Show gratitude, and don’t be surprised to watch it grow and work its way to others.

One of the most important areas to be an influencer, is with the mindset of gratitude. I’ve heard multiple stories of how an expression of gratitude changed a relationship. I read a story recently about a summer camp where the students and staff were having an awful time. One of the counselors decided to ask everyone to name one thing they are thankful for, and one person they are thankful for. Many wrote “thank you” notes to others at the camp. The results were described as miraculous. The rest of the time at the camp was more exciting, more fun, and more meaningful than anyone expected.

You and I have the power to change the atmosphere of a relationship, a workplace, or a home when we model gratitude.

Decide to be a thermostat, change the level of gratitude in a room the next time you have a chance. Gratitude has a way of lubricating the gears in relationships. It moves from person to person, it lightens loads, it brings perspective, and it is a great example of the goodness of God.