Pastor John McAuthor believes that all of life is about “truth” and that it is the most important reality in the universe.

We have moral and spiritual truth, but also fixed truth relating to the laws and principles that govern the physical world. It is quite obvious that if you reject the reality of truth, life does not work very well.

Rational people care about the laws of the physical world because they clearly understand how violating these laws can be harmful and destructive. Yet some of these same people do not seem at all concerned about violating the spiritual and moral laws that have been revealed by God. But how does this happen in the lives of reasonable people?

I think it is quite simple. When we violate moral and spiritual laws, the consequences are generally not immediate. Several years ago, someone suggested I read the book of Ecclesiastes in the New Living Bible, which is a good paraphrase of the Bible. I took up the suggestion and really enjoyed it. I remember Ecclesiastes 8:11 was quite revealing: “Because God does not punish instantly, people feel it is safe to do harm (or to sin).”

Think about a person who decides to smoke cigarettes at the age of 20. It feels good and calms them down, and there are no immediate and harmful effects. As the years go by it can begin to impact their breathing and can be the source of all types of cancers.

Clearly, this smoker would not jump off of a ten-story building and expect to live, but is willing to damage their health by smoking. Ultimately, so many people develop the mentality that they can live however they choose and not have to face harmful consequences.

This also works on the opposite end of the spectrum. In Galatians 6:9, the Apostle Paul says, “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.” It is important to seek to do that which is right and pleasing to God, even though we might not see immediately the fruit that is born from this type of life.

We need to recognize that all of life is a reaping. Wisdom recognizes that life is the sum of the choices you make. Therefore, stay on the path that is pleasing to God, for He promises us we will reap if we do not grow weary.

Richard E Simmons III is the founder and Executive Director of The Center for Executive Leadership and a best-selling author.