It is that time of the year again when fright and fear become big business: haunted houses, horror movies, and scary decorations. I have always enjoyed the good fun associated with Halloween. I enjoy being frightened and spooked out of my shoes from time to time. I even like that crazy feeling of my hair standing up on the back of my neck. But I also enjoy getting to the exit of a haunted house, turning the lights on, or walking out of the theater knowing that it was not "real."
Real fear can be quite the motivator. Many folk play on our fears to persuade to do or buy certain thing. But fear do not always produce the effect intended. In a book entitled Mind Changers, Em Griffin states that fear can be an effective motivator or it can boomerang and turn people off. In research studies, some fear is helpful in persuading opinion but too much fear actually will have the opposite effect. When too much fear is used three common reactions are given by folks:
1. "I was scared out of my mind." In a sense of panic, without thoughtful logic, a person makes a decision based on the experienced fear. Then the person will try to avoid anything connected with what "scared them to death." Folks who use scare tactics in sharing the gospel need to pay attention to this. Scaring people "out of hell" this time of year with all kinds presentations may get a reaction and decision. But the person may avoid anything involved with your church in the future. Why? You scared them.
2. Another reaction people may give when confronted with great fear is "Aw, it'll never happen to me." A person may dismiss the reality of the need for fear. No matter how terrifying something is if they do not see the probability of it happening to them, they will dismiss the fear without effect.
3. Or, the person experiencing fear may see our solution to the problem and say, "I don't think it'll do any good." The fear tactic begins to boomerang when the fright outweighs the credibility of the solution. If the solution seems too simple or unbelievable, the person will be pushed away.
Is there a better approach to being persuasive? I am thinking in particular here about training, coaching, evangelism, parenting, and swaying public opinion.
In Romans chapter 2 the apostle Paul described the justified wrath and judgement that is surely to come on mankind, yet, in verse 4 he revealed that it is God's kindness that leads us to repentance (changing our mind, turning back to God). Fear may have some effectiveness, but it is kindness that leads to changing one's mind.
What was God's method to win our hearts and minds? The way of the cross. Jesus willingly took on our punishment in order to win our hearts. Kindness, love, grace.
Fear tactics may have they place and limited effectiveness. Ultimately, in changing hearts and minds we must help people see things (experience realty) from a different perspective. Being overwhelmed by an experience of love and kindness may have a more lasting effect on one's perspective than fear.
During the season of "Trick or Treat," I want to lean toward treat, treating others with kindness. Life is scary enough without me adding anything to it.
