Do fear, guilt, and shame have any real place in the Christian life? Many Bible teachers and leaders not only say yes, but they also use these factors to prompt their congregations to do what they believe God wants them to do. Let’s face it, sometimes their messages motivate us to want to do God’s will, but more times than not they end up burning us out and then stop us dead in our tracks. What if this is the real reason so many Christians have become paralyzed by the same stuff that used to motivate them?

So does the Bible really justify the use of negative motivators as part of the normal Christian life, or have we been set free by grace? And do we have to play along with the fleshly game of the religious system that forces us to manipulate our guilt to keep us from becoming paralyzed? I say that the perfect love of Christ has destroyed fear, and it is the religious demands in the world around us that keep working to shake us from our true confidence. My friends, don’t let those who would intimidate you with fear, guilt and shame to intimidate you, for you have been set free. Seek that which is above, where Christ, who is your life is found. :)