Here’s a quote via Wayne Jacobsen’s blog:

Sometimes in an effort to remind people of the cost of the cross, we withhold grace until we are sure they understand their sin. But it is in giving of our grace that we remind people that they need to go to Jesus to find their own. People understand their sin without our help. It’s grace they need help in understanding.

This is so simple and profound. The message — more so, the real experience — of grace is much more powerful than reasons and threats. Fear may cause people to act and conform (or pretend to), but only love can capture their hearts and set them free. I can only live out these words if I know and experience the love of the Father myself.