The Good Inclination

In Jewish tradition, it is said that persons have conflicting good and evil inclinations. As for the former, it results in marriage, birthing children, erecting a house, or engaging in work. As for the latter, it manifests itself in such traits as avarice, anger, and retribution. This dual inclination is graphically portrayed by an angel on one shoulder, and a demon on the other. Humans are left to choose between the two, as to which will serve as their mentor. If the former, one is blessed. If the latter, with tragic consequences. C. S. Lewis observes that God is more disposed to employ carrots (incentives) than clubs (demands). While this may imply a precedent, it certainly suggests that we ought not to emphasize one inclination to the exclusion of the other. For we are given to fall prey to one error in the attempt to escape its opposite. It remains to delve into the topic at greater length, and examples proliferate. Early on, concerning the High God tradition which persists from antiquity. Later on, with regard to citizen Christians, as an expression of Christian social ethics. Still later on, with cultivating civility, as an appeal to humane behavior. And so on. Perhaps most striking is the example set by Jesus, concerning his pristine humanity. Recalling that in creedal terms, he was both divine and human. As for confirmation, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet without sin" (Heb. 4:15).