Virtue or Fear

Why do we do some things and avoid others?  We try to do the good while trying to avoid the bad.  But what is our basis for these decisions?  Usually they are at least somewhat influenced by our experiences in life.  From our first memories through today our lives and actions are in part determined by what has been familiar to us.

For some these experiences are pleasant.  We recall the guidance and direction of a loving mother and father.  Even when we did things we shouldn’t the discipline was fair and based on love and the desire that we grow into good people.  This type of correction and discipline helps develop virtue and a desire to do good simply because it is good.  Others may have been taught by fear and punishment.  As long as they did what they were told things went well.  However, violation of the rules may have resulted in punishment given in anger rather than love.  Discipline of this sort can result in good behavior based on fear alone.  Virtue wasn’t taught, just a fear of the consequences for failure.  The type of discipline we had a children and young adults affects us throughout our life if we allow it.  We sometimes have to outgrow our experiences and revise our motives.

Growing up in small town Kentucky many years ago I recall some churches having revivals.  The sermons given were usually what were referred to as “fire and brimstone” sermons.  They were sermons telling those attending that they were going to hell unless they changed their ways and toed the line in their spiritual life.  The relationship between the people and God was one of strictness and anger.  Do right or go to hell was the basic message.  I don’t doubt that there is a need to identify wrong behavior in an effort to get one to change.  I question the forcefulness of “change or go to hell.” 

I find my God is a forgiving God.  One who is patient with me when I make a mistake.  Jesus died that I might have mercy and forgiveness, not just a one-way ticket to hell if I sinned.  The life and teaching of Jesus was one of love and acceptance.  He forgave people of their sins and gave them His love.  Of course He admonished them to sin no more but I can’t find a single instance of Jesus saying, “Straighten up or I’ll send you to hell.”

We need to be aware of the motivation for our actions.  Do we act out of love and respect or out of fear that God will send us to hell?  If we avoid sin only to avoid hell we are missing the true meaning of Jesus’ life and sacrifice.  We should regret our failures and strive to do better going forward out of love for Him and a sincere desire to please Him.  God does not want our fear He wants our love.  He wants to forgive and strengthen us in virtue.

What guides your actions, love of virtue or fear of punishment?