When the Great Ways are carried out in governing, the country will enjoy peace and stability although there are few laws. Without implementing the Great Ways, the country will be in a chaos, even though there might be plenty of decrees and ordinances.  

道德仁义定， 而天下正。(说苑）

When morality, ethics, benevolence and righteousness are effectuated faithfully, people under heaven will naturally follow the right way in everything they do. 

地中生木，升。君子以慎德，积小以成高大。 （周易）

Trees grow from the earth, gaining height gradually. A noble man is prudent in his conduct and daily cultivates his character of doing kindness.  By and  by  he will grow up in virtues and eventually become a great man of lofty morality.