We must fear God out of love, not love Him out of fear

We must fear God out of love, not love Him out of fear

Saint Francis de Sales, a 16th-century bishop and Doctor of the Church, is known for his teachings on the importance of love and devotion to God. One of his most famous quotes is, “We must fear God out of love, not love Him out of fear.” This statement encapsulates his belief that true reverence for God should come from a place of deep love and devotion, rather than from a place of fear and punishment.

Saint Francis de Sales understood that fear can be a powerful motivator, but he believed that it should not be the primary driving force behind our relationship with God. Instead, he emphasized the importance of cultivating a deep and abiding love for God, rooted in a genuine desire to please Him and grow closer to Him.

For Saint Francis de Sales, love is the key to true devotion and obedience to God. When we love God with all our hearts, we naturally want to follow His commandments and live according to His will. This love motivates us to seek God in all things, to serve Him with joy and gratitude, and to trust in His providence even in times of trial and difficulty.

In contrast, a relationship with God based solely on fear can lead to a sense of obligation and duty, rather than a genuine desire to please Him. Fear of punishment or retribution may cause us to obey God’s commandments out of a sense of self-preservation, rather than out of a deep and abiding love for Him.

Saint Francis de Sales believed that true love for God should be the foundation of our faith and the driving force behind our actions. When we love God with all our hearts, we are able to trust in His goodness and mercy, even in the face of our own weaknesses and failings. Our love for God should inspire us to seek His will in all things, to serve Him with joy and gratitude, and to trust in His providence even in times of trial and difficulty.