Prudence in Christian preaching emphasizes wise, discerning judgment to align actions with God's will, guarding against folly and sin. It often employs imagery of careful navigation or watchful guardianship, reflecting the call to be sober and vigilant (Proverbs 14:15; Ephesians 5:15). This virtue is foundational, guiding other virtues to act rightly and avoid spiritual peril.
Be cautious with your heart's desires to avoid falling into God's displeasure.
It behooveth him that walketh upon cords strained and fastened on high, diligently to look to his footing, that he may not fall this way or that: so it standeth us to be wary, and careful to look about us, to take good heed where we set our feet (that is our affections and the delights of our hearts), lest we fall down headlong into the bottomless gulf of God's displeasure.
— Cawdray
Prudence is essential and must precede fortitude for wise virtue practice.
Aristotle is praised for naming fortitude the first of the cardinal virtues, — as that without which no other virtue can steadily be practised: but he might, with equal propriety, have placed prudence before it; since without prudence fortitude is madness. Goodrich.
Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.
Donate