2181 The Christian Church

“God never threatens; the devil never warns,” declared Oswald Chambers. We
sometimes use the words threat and warning interchangeably, but Chambers
saw a principle that suggests a distinction. Threats are used to get people to do
what is in our best interest. Warnings are issued to get people to do what is in
their best interest. In other words, threats seek to preserve power, whereas
warnings serve to protect people from danger.

Satan wants us to think of God’s loving warnings as mean-spirited threats, but he
is wrong. According to Chambers, “A warning is a great arresting statement of
God’s, inspired by His love and patience.” The evidence of this is found in the
many commands that are coupled with phrases like “that it may go well with
you” (Deut. 4:40; 12:28).

In loving relationships, people warn one another of the inevitable consequences
of foolish behavior. In unhealthy relationships, people threaten one another with
punishment if they fail to live up to unreasonable demands.

As we interact with others, it’s good to consider the nature of our counsel and
commands. Do we use ultimatums to preserve our own well-being? Or do we
lovingly warn others to keep them from harm? — Julie Ackerman Link

FOR FURTHER STUDY
How can we take comfort from the love of God if we don’t feel loved? Read How
Has God Loved Us? on the Web at www.discoveryseries.org/q0102

Warnings are an expression of love; threats are an
expression of control.