Most Prudent

Prudence is the mother of all virtues and the key virtue in the Christian moral tradition; it is the ability to make right judgments. Prudence helps us to determine our true good in every circumstance. Wisdom and prudence go hand in hand. Wisdom is knowledge combined with the practical experience necessary to use it effectively at the right time or in the right situation. Prudence is the ability to act in accordance with knowledge and wisdom. The Book of Proverbs helps us to see the value of wisdom and prudence:

Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold. [For Wisdom is better than corals, and no treasures can compare with her.] I, Wisdom, dwell with prudence, and useful knowledge I have.

Proverbs 8:10-12

In every situation in life, St. Joseph was a model of prudence. He prayed and waited on the Lord to reveal the mysteries of his wife's pregnancy to him. He educated the God-Man, and, in every situation, allowed prudence to govern his actions. Each time Joseph knew the will of God, he acted decisively, swiftly, and accurately. He acted neither rashly nor timidly, but prudently.^vii

Real life has endless opportunities to exercise the virtue of prudence. Some acts are intrinsically evil, and they must never be done. But that list is short, so most of life requires prudential judgment. Let us pray and ask St. Joseph for an increase in prudence.

St. Joseph, help me to increase in the virtue of prudence. Guide me to do what is right no matter how much I have to suffer for it. Pray the Litany of St. Joseph.

Daily Challenge

Are there situations in my life right now that require great wisdom and prudence to know the right thing to do? If so, identify these and resolve to seek Godly wisdom through counsel and prayer to be prepared to act with prudence.