Sometimes I wonder why we talk so much in church about the blessings we receive for keeping commandments. I have wondered if it is to motivate us to obey when we are not altruistic or loving God enough to obey anyway. That didn't sound very awesome. Like we are kids that have to be bribed and rewarded every time we do anything good in order to obey.
Instead, I think we learn about choices and consequences more when we know the blessings that are promised. And God wants us to learn about choices and consequences. They are eternal, unchanging principles that are an essential part of His plan. He wants us to have blessings and rewards; they are part of what prepare us for eternal life and for mortal trials and joys. I am struck with the idea that the blessings may be just as much a part of our learning and development as the obedience.
God wants to give us the blessings but must wait until we obey so that the blessing won't be lost on us or taken for granted.
This shift in my thinking could benefit how I see rewarding my children as well. In our home, we practice offering set consequences and occasional spontaneous rewards while seeking to limit bribes intended to manipulate. Like the blessings God gives us which help us feel joy and become better, our consequences for our children should help them develop and have joy, not take away from their goodness or progress.
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