How do you know when you are on the right path in your relationships?
Are your actions motivated by a desire to avoid wrath or a desire to bring joy?
At first glance they may seem like the same thing, but it is the perspective and underlying emotions that count.
Actions are caused by intent like smoke is caused by a fire. Think on your Christian walk. You don't do and say the "Christian" things because you are scared (at least that shouldn't be the reason). Rather, you do and say those things in an attempt to please God and bring him joy. You do those things out of gratitude not out of fear. This should be our example in our relationships with those we love.
As a wise one once said, "Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering." Our motivation should never be fear. If it is, then that relationship is unhealthy and needs to be tended to. Seek to bring joy to those you love. This attitude will benefit you as well as those you love.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
John 13:34-35
" 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ "
Mark 12:30-31