I consider myself a deeply religious man. My moral and ethical integrity is not determined by civil laws alone but rather the result of laws I consider to be much more powerful and lasting. Religion teaches me I am accountable to more than just man-made laws, although those laws are a subset of the larger whole. The absence of religious conviction requires thousands of laws in order to maintain a safe and honorable society.
There can never be enough laws written to take the place of religious moral conviction. Without the belief in something greater, there is a great tendency to circumvent a given set of civil laws or standards because there would seem to be no long-term consequences for your actions. Religion gives meaning and purpose to moral and ethical integrity. I urge all to find a better reason for adhering to laws other than the fear of getting caught. I urge all to adhere to a higher standard.
Jeff Porter
Sandy