The Christian's Meat and Drink

Scougal then reflects on the inner motivations of this divine life. Why does the true Christian bear love for God? Some who criticize Christians think that they are motivated by fear of judgment, constantly looking over their shoulders for the advance of a vengeful God who seeks to catch them putting a foot out of place. But Scougal observes this is precisely what characterizes "forced and artificial religion," a heavy and lethargic thing that barely shifts itself to do what it thinks it must, rather than true religion that derives its motivations from love of and gratitude toward God. "He who has given himself entirely unto God will never think he does too much for Him."