I am chasing love, and hate is chasing me.
I must forgive others before retribution overtakes me.
I am chasing gratitude, and jealousy is chasing me.
I must count my blessings before bitterness overtakes me.
I am chasing humility, and pride is chasing me.
I must remain humble before bigotry overtakes me.
I am chasing charity, and greed is chasing me.
I must be generous before selfishness overtakes me.
I am chasing compassion, and cruelty is chasing me.
I must show kindness before apathy overtakes me.
I am chasing righteousness, and corruption is chasing me.
I must uphold fairness before prejudice overtakes me.
I am chasing liberty, and oppression is chasing me.
I must continue to seek justice before tyranny overtakes me.
I am chasing peace, and chaos is chasing me.
I must try to compromise before defeat overtakes me.
I am chasing discipline, and excess is chasing me.
I must practice moderation before gluttony overtakes me.
I am chasing diligence, and apathy is chasing me.
I must stay motivated before complacency overtakes me.
I am chasing truth, and deception is chasing me.
I must believe in the Word before confusion overtakes me.
I am chasing faith, and doubt is chasing me.
I must trust in God before despair overtakes me.
I am chasing salvation, and damnation is chasing me.
I must keep praying before the world overtakes me.
I am chasing Jesus, and the devil is chasing me.
I must keep repenting before temptation overtakes me.
Edited by: ElRoyPoet, 2025
Poem Analysis: How Virtue Empower Churches and Society
The pursuit of virtues such as love, gratitude, humility, charity, compassion, righteousness, liberty, peace, discipline, diligence, truth, faith, salvation, and spiritual connection forms the moral backbone of a thriving nation. The poetic reflections provided exemplify the ongoing internal and external battles individuals face in cultivating these virtues. When these pursuits are prioritized, and the destructive forces—such as hatred, jealousy, pride, greed, cruelty, corruption, oppression, chaos, excess, apathy, deception, doubt, despair, temptation—are kept at bay, the moral fabric of a nation is strengthened. Psychological research supports the idea that fostering positive moral qualities enhances societal well-being, cohesion, and resilience.
Forgiveness and Emotional Health
The first line, “I am chasing love, and hate is chasing me,” underscores the importance of forgiveness in moral development. Psychologically, forgiveness reduces stress and promotes emotional healing (McCullough et al., 2008). Societies that cultivate forgiveness tend to experience lower levels of conflict and violence, fostering social harmony. When individuals prioritize love over hate, they create an environment where trust and empathy flourish, essential components for moral progress.
Gratitude and Psychological Well-being
Chasing gratitude while resisting jealousy aligns with findings that gratitude enhances happiness and prosocial behavior (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). Gratitude shifts focus from what is lacking to what is abundant, reducing bitterness and envy. Societies that promote gratitude tend to exhibit higher levels of social support and cooperation, which are crucial for moral development.
Humility, Pride, and Social Justice
The pursuit of humility in the face of pride reflects a recognition of the importance of humility in reducing arrogance and fostering social justice. Psychological research indicates that humility correlates with openness to others’ perspectives and reduces prejudice (Rowatt et al., 2006). When humility prevails, individuals are more likely to act fairly and resist bigotry, strengthening moral integrity at the societal level.
Charity, Greed, and Economic Morality
The tension between charity and greed highlights the moral significance of generosity. Altruistic behavior is linked to increased happiness and social bonding (Batson et al., 1997). Societies encouraging charity and discouraging greed foster trust and cooperation, essential for economic fairness and social cohesion.
Compassion, Cruelty, and Empathy
The pursuit of compassion in opposition to cruelty emphasizes empathy’s role in moral development. Psychological studies show that empathy motivates prosocial actions and reduces aggression (Decety & Jackson, 2004). Cultivating compassion leads to a more humane society where kindness prevails over apathy.
Righteousness, Corruption, and Ethical Conduct
Chasing righteousness and resisting corruption underscores the importance of integrity. Moral psychology suggests that individuals with high moral identity are more likely to act ethically (Aquino & Reed, 2002). Societies that uphold fairness and combat corruption foster trust and moral legitimacy.
Liberty, Oppression, and Justice
The pursuit of liberty against oppression mirrors the fundamental human desire for justice. Psychological research links perceived fairness with well-being and social stability (Tyler, 2006). A nation committed to justice and liberty creates an environment where individual rights are protected, encouraging moral development.
Peace, Chaos, and Conflict Resolution
Seeking peace amid chaos highlights the value of conflict resolution and compromise. Mediation and negotiation are associated with increased social cohesion (Wall & Lynn, 1993). Societies that prioritize peace foster moral virtues of patience and understanding.
Discipline, Moderation, and Self-Control
The battle between discipline and excess exemplifies self-control’s role in moral growth. Psychologists note that self-regulation predicts prosocial behavior and moral maturity (Baumeister et al., 2007). Practicing moderation promotes societal stability and individual responsibility.
Diligence, Motivation, and Progress
Diligence counters apathy, fostering perseverance and achievement. Motivation and engagement are linked to moral virtues like responsibility and integrity (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Societies that encourage diligence cultivate moral citizens committed to collective progress.
Truth, Deception, and Cognitive Integrity
Pursuing truth against deception emphasizes the importance of honesty. Cognitive psychology shows that truth-seeking reduces cognitive dissonance and supports rational decision-making (Festinger, 1957). Societies valuing truth uphold transparency and trustworthiness.
Faith, Doubt, and Psychological Resilience
Belief in a higher power provides psychological resilience in adversity (Pargament, 1997). Trust in divine guidance can foster hope and moral steadfastness, essential for societal stability.
Salvation, Damnation, and Moral Accountability
The pursuit of salvation over damnation underscores moral accountability. Moral psychology emphasizes the role of conscience and moral judgment in guiding behavior (Kohlberg, 1984). Societies that promote moral responsibility cultivate ethical citizens.
Spiritual Warfare and Personal Virtue
Finally, the struggle between seeking Jesus and resisting temptation illustrates the importance of spiritual discipline. Research suggests that spiritual practices can enhance moral behavior by increasing self-control and purpose (Pargament & Mahoney, 2005).
The recurring theme of chasing virtues while resisting destructive forces highlights the dynamic nature of moral development at individual and societal levels. Psychological research confirms that fostering virtues like love, gratitude, humility, charity, compassion, righteousness, liberty, peace, discipline, diligence, truth, faith, salvation, and spiritual integrity leads to healthier, more cohesive, and morally upright nations. These pursuits cultivate a moral climate that promotes trust, fairness, empathy, and resilience—cornerstones of a thriving society. Ultimately, moral progress depends on continuous effort to prioritize virtues over vices, ensuring the moral advancement of the nation and the well-being of its citizens.
“To be a good soldier a man must have discipline, self-respect, pride in his unit and in his country, a high sense of duty and obligation to his comrades and to his superiors, and self-confidence born of demonstrated ability.” ― George S. Patton Jr.
The Downward Spiral: How Neglecting Morals Threatens Our Nation
When a church and society neglect to uphold the core virtues of love, gratitude, humility, charity, compassion, righteousness, liberty, peace, discipline, diligence, truth, faith, salvation, and spiritual integrity, they risk deterioration in moral fabric, social cohesion, and spiritual vitality. The absence or erosion of these virtues creates a fertile ground for destructive forces such as hatred, envy, pride, greed, cruelty, corruption, oppression, chaos, excess, apathy, deception, doubt, despair, and temptation to flourish. Psychologically and sociologically, the consequences of such neglect are profound, leading to societal decay, spiritual emptiness, and loss of communal purpose.
Erosion of Moral Foundations and Rise of Hatred
Without love and forgiveness, resentment and hostility can take root within a community. When a church or society fails to promote forgiveness, interpersonal conflicts escalate, fostering cycles of revenge and violence. Psychologically, prolonged anger and bitterness impair emotional regulation and mental health (Litz et al., 2000). Societally, this leads to increased hostility, polarization, and distrust, undermining social bonds essential for a cohesive community.
Decline of Gratitude and Increase in Envy
A failure to nurture gratitude breeds dissatisfaction and envy. When societies neglect to appreciate their blessings, bitterness and social comparison intensify (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). This can result in social fragmentation, with individuals feeling resentful and unfulfilled, which diminishes communal harmony and fosters rivalry instead of cooperation.
Rise of Pride and Bigotry
When humility is absent, pride and arrogance flourish, often leading to bigotry and discrimination. Psychologically, excessive pride impairs empathy and perspective-taking (Kohut, 1971). Societies that elevate pride over humility tend to justify inequality and injustice, creating divisions and marginalizing vulnerable groups, thereby eroding moral integrity.
Greed and Economic Inequality
Neglecting charity in favor of greed results in economic disparity and social injustice. Greed fosters selfishness and undermines social trust (Baumeister et al., 2007). Societies plagued by greed often experience corruption, exploitation, and a breakdown of communal responsibility, weakening social cohesion and moral standards.
Cruelty and Apathy
When compassion diminishes and cruelty prevails, the moral fabric frays. Apathy towards suffering leads to desensitization, reducing individuals’ willingness to help others (Decety & Jackson, 2004). Societies exhibiting widespread cruelty and indifference foster environments of fear and alienation, where human dignity is compromised.
Corruption and Loss of Righteousness
Failure to uphold righteousness invites corruption and dishonesty. Corruption erodes trust in institutions and leaders, leading to cynicism and moral decay (Rose-Ackerman, 1999). When moral standards decline, societal legitimacy weakens, and social order becomes fragile.
Oppression and Suppressed Freedoms
Neglecting the pursuit of liberty and justice results in oppressive regimes and social unrest. When justice is absent, grievances fester, leading to rebellion and chaos. Psychologically, oppression damages self-esteem and fosters hopelessness (Tyler, 2006). Societies lacking justice and freedom become dystopian, with diminished moral agency among their citizens.
Chaos and Breakdown of Social Order
When peace is sacrificed for chaos, societal stability erodes. Without the virtue of patience and conflict resolution, societies spiral into violence and anarchy. This environment breeds fear, mistrust, and moral nihilism, impairing social and spiritual development.
Excess and Self-Destruction
Ignoring discipline and moderation leads to excess, addiction, and health crises. Psychologically, lack of self-control predisposes individuals to impulsivity and destructive behaviors (Baumeister et al., 2007). Societies overwhelmed by excess suffer from instability and diminished moral responsibility.
Apathy and Moral Decline
When diligence and motivation wane, apathy takes hold, leading to stagnation and decay. Societies become indifferent to injustice or corruption, allowing moral failures to persist unchecked (Ryan & Deci, 2000). This apathy diminishes civic engagement and undermines collective moral progress.
Deception and Loss of Truth
Neglecting truth results in misinformation, corruption, and erosion of trust. When deception becomes commonplace, societal cohesion and moral clarity diminish, leading to confusion and moral relativism (Festinger, 1957). A society built on lies erodes its moral authority and spiritual vitality.
Doubt, Despair, and Spiritual Weakness
Lack of faith and spiritual commitment fosters doubt and despair. When trust in divine guidance and moral absolutes diminishes, individuals may become morally adrift, vulnerable to temptation and nihilism. This spiritual emptiness weakens societal resilience and moral direction (Pargament, 1997).
Consequences for the Church and Society
A church that abandons these virtues risks losing its moral authority and spiritual influence. It may become hypocritical, divided, or irrelevant, diminishing its capacity to guide believers morally and spiritually. Society, in turn, faces increased crime, corruption, social fragmentation, and decline in overall well-being.
Neglecting to uphold foundational virtues leads to moral decay, social disintegration, and spiritual impoverishment. When love, humility, charity, compassion, righteousness, and other virtues are forsaken, destructive forces gain momentum, fracturing communities and weakening societal bonds. Psychologically, this breakdown manifests in increased stress, alienation, and moral disengagement. Collectively, the neglect of these virtues diminishes the moral fabric of a nation, making it susceptible to chaos, injustice, and spiritual emptiness—ultimately threatening its very soul. Maintaining and promoting these virtues is essential for fostering a moral, just, and spiritually resilient society.
“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the law, happy is he. A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understands, he will not answer. Do you see a man that is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him. He that enables his servant from a child, shall be rewarded with grief, by that ungrateful son. An angry man stirs up arguments, and a hot-tempered man causes many transgressions. A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honor shall uphold the humble in spirit. Whoever partners with a thief hates his own soul: he hears cursing and denies it not. The fear of man brings a trap: but he who puts his trust in the Lord shall be safe. Many seek the ruler’s favor; but every man’s judgment comes from the Lord. An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is detestable to the wicked.” ― Proverbs 29:18-27
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.” ― Proverbs 6:16-19
Satan’s story to Eve in Genesis 3 and to Jesus in Matthew 4 was that they could live independently of God, that is, they could be their own god, set their own standards, let circumstances dictate their decision. But it is a lie.
Either God controls your life by your choosing to let him, or Satan controls your life by your choosing to let him and by your choosing to just go with flow. You and I were designed by God to be ruled by a spirit . Our choice is not whether to be ruled, but rather by which spirit we will be ruled.
So, the Christian’s life is based on decisions, the process of making deliberate right choices without being swayed by Satan’s input into our appetites or emotions.
In Satan’s temptation of Eve in Genesis 3 and in his temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4, we see the tactics he used and still uses with us. While varied in their details, most temptations fall into one of three categories as listed in 1 John 2:16: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Excerpts from How does Satan tempt us?
“For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.” 1 John 2:16 [I am NOT citing this Bible verse to pass judgment on YOUR soul. I know this admonishment is a “hard pill to swallow”, because of how little TRUTH is really taught today. I also know how burdensome it is to be different, when even church “culture” seems to overlap more and more with the world’s.]
To the nonbeliever, life can seem mundane: live for today, for tomorrow it will end. Pining for an unfulfilled life will sap the joy from your tree of life. To the believer, life can be burdensome—”works without faith is dead.” James 2:17 Today leads to tomorrow, and tomorrow to heaven, but when? An eternity can seem so far away. But don’t worry about your next destination, for life is a series of intermissions, and as long as you honor your Creator, you don’t have to despair because you’re on His journey.
“We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul-We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.” ― LDS Article 13
“We can stand in the place and stead of the Lord Jesus Christ in administering salvation to the children of men. He preached the gospel; so can we. He spoke by the power of the Holy Ghost; so can we. He served as a missionary; so can we. He went about doing good; so can we. He performed the ordinances of salvation; so can we. He kept the commandments; so can we. He wrought miracles; such also is our privilege if we are true and faithful in all things.” ― Bruce R. McConkie
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