Augustine Quote Love God and Do as You Please: Understanding Its True Meaning

The Nuances of “Love God and Do as You Please”

Augustine’s words, “Love God and do as you please,” aren’t a license for moral anarchy. The quote, in its fullest context, speaks to a transformative power of divine love. When we truly love God, our desires align with His will. Our “pleasing” becomes an act of loving obedience, not self-serving indulgence. This interpretation emphasizes the idea that genuine love for God fundamentally alters our inclinations and motivates us to act in accordance with divine principles. It’s about a heart transformation, not a free pass.

Does Loving God Mean We Can Do Anything We Want?

Absolutely not. This common misconception stems from a superficial understanding of the quote. The “pleasing” referred to isn’t about fulfilling our base desires but aligning our will with God’s. It’s about finding freedom in obedience to a higher purpose, a freedom rooted in love and not in license.

The Source and Context of the Augustine Quote

The precise origin of “Love God and do as you please” remains debated among scholars. While often associated with Augustine, its exact phrasing isn’t found in his most prominent works. However, the sentiment echoes throughout his teachings, particularly in his discussions on the nature of love and the transformative power of grace. Understanding the quote requires understanding Augustine’s broader theological framework, where love for God is the ultimate driving force for human action.

Unpacking the Meaning of Love in Augustine’s Theology

For Augustine, love isn’t merely an emotion; it’s the core principle governing the universe. He believed that true love, directed towards God, naturally leads to a life of virtue. This love isn’t a feeling but a commitment, a choice to align our will with the divine. This understanding is crucial to interpreting “Love God and do as you please” correctly.

Applying “Love God and Do as You Please” to Modern Life

The quote remains relevant today, offering guidance for navigating complex moral dilemmas. It encourages us to examine our motivations, ensuring our actions stem from genuine love for God and others, not selfish desires. It challenges us to align our will with a higher purpose, finding freedom in choosing the good.

Living Out the Quote in Relationships and Decision-Making

When faced with decisions, consider: does this action reflect love for God? Does it align with His teachings and principles? If the answer is yes, then you are truly “doing as you please” in the Augustinian sense. This principle applies to all aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional endeavors.

Conclusion

“Love God and do as you please” is a powerful reminder that true freedom comes from aligning ourselves with divine love. It’s not a permission slip for self-indulgence, but a call to transform our desires and live a life of purpose and virtue. It challenges us to seek God’s will in all things, finding true freedom in loving obedience.

FAQ

What is the true meaning of “Love God and do as you please”?

Is this quote a license to sin?

How does Augustine’s theology of love inform this quote?

How can we apply this quote to modern life?

What is the significance of this quote for spiritual growth?

Is this a direct quote from Augustine’s writings?

How does this quote relate to free will?