Morality Is Ultimately Rooted in Personal Relationship with God

In today's world, discussions about morality often lead to debates about its objective or subjective nature. Some argue that moral values are objective truths, existing independently of personal beliefs. However, a deeper examination reveals that morality is inherently personal, deeply rooted in our relationship with God.

The Subjectivity of Value

Consider the concept of value itself. What makes something valuable? Take gold, for example. Its worth isn't intrinsic; rather, we assign value to it. If someone were isolated on a deserted island, facing imminent danger, stumbling upon a chest of gold wouldn't bring joy or relief. In that context, gold holds no value. This illustrates that value is person-relative; it's our perception and needs that determine worth.

This principle extends to moral values. In a universe devoid of persons beings capable of valuing concepts like good and evil wouldn't exist. Moral values require a valuer, indicating that morality is subjective, depending on the individual doing the valuing. This subjectivity implies that morality is personal.

The Implications of Atheism on Morality

If we adopt an atheistic perspective, asserting that there's no divine Person, we're left with human persons as the sole arbiters of moral values. With approximately eight billion individuals on Earth, this leads to the notion that morality is relative to humans alone. Each person possesses their own set of moral standards, resulting in a multitude of moralities without a unified moral law.

This raises critical questions: Why should one person's moral standards take precedence over another's? Is it because they're shared by the majority? If so, does that mean the majority is always right? History has shown that majorities can be misguided. Alternatively, if moral authority stems from those in power, does might make right? Such perspectives can lead to ethical dilemmas and inconsistencies.

The Necessity of a Divine Moral Standard

Introducing God into the equation provides a consistent foundation for morality. If there's a divine Person, then moral standards can be subjective yet independent of human whims. Morality becomes objective in the sense that it's anchored in God's nature and will. This divine standard offers an unchanging benchmark for distinguishing right from wrong.

Without acknowledging God, morality risks becoming a construct of human preferences, susceptible to change and manipulation. This perspective aligns with the biblical understanding that true moral values are grounded in God's character and commandments.

The Role of Love in Morality

Beyond mere duty, genuine morality stems from love love for God and for others. Acting from a sense of obligation alone can lead to hollow compliance. However, when our actions are motivated by love, they reflect true moral beauty. As C.S. Lewis insightfully noted, a perfect person wouldn't act out of duty but out of genuine desire for what's right. Duty serves as a substitute for love, much like a crutch substitutes for a leg; it's necessary at times but not the ideal.

Conclusion

Understanding that morality is personal and rooted in our relationship with God challenges us to examine the foundation of our moral beliefs. It invites us to move beyond subjective standards and seek alignment with the divine moral law. This perspective not only provides consistency but also enriches our moral actions with genuine love and purpose.

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