WHAT HAPPENED TO GOD, BETWEEN MALACHI AND MATTHEW?

Can a lasting relationship result from fear or threats?  So, if I am told I must love GOD or HE will throw me into hell; well, I might consider trying to love HIM - or at least pretend I do.  The threat of hell may get us to repeat "the sinner's prayer" or join a Church, but it doesn't create a Loving and Trusting Relationship.  Love is knowing our, and other's weaknesses, imperfections and worldly insignificance; then totally EMBRACING them in  humble will of Blessings for another and willingness to sacrifice ourselves for their good.  2 Corinthians 10:5, "We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of GOD..." What happened to GOD between Malachi and Matthew anyway?  Before, HE was depicted as angry and now loving; is this the same GOD?  GOD'S wrath against sin is not HIS rejection of us in anger, but rather an awakening to the depth of HIS love for us because HE cannot look away as sin destroys us!  Pretending to love GOD to "Get-out-of-hell- FREE card" will not give the loving relationship we and GOD really desire.  Yes, Heaven and Hell are real; and HE is the same Loving GOD from before there was a beginning, to where there is no end;  Yes, the same loving GOD, from BEFORE MALACHI AND BEYOND MATTHEW.