How to Know the Seven Virtues

The Seven Heavenly Virtues were put forth and explained by Pope Gregory the Great (540 to 604 A.D.). These principles were looked to for guidance in this life so that all may live in preparation for the next. The Seven Virtues each have corresponding vices that must be avoided as vigorously as the virtues are practiced.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Keep the virtue of "Faith" foremost in your life. This is considered the most important virtue, allowing you to incorporate the others more easily into your life. If you have faith that God is truly good, merciful and just you will want to please Him. The Seven Heavenly Virtues are guideposts in your spiritual journey through this life.
2. Retain the virtue of "Hope" in the midst of adversity. Hope is the belief good will prevail no matter what evil may befall you or your loved ones. Always bear in mind only God alone knows what will come of your efforts and your struggles to continue to do good even when tempted by despair.
3. Practice the virtue of "Charity" in your life. It's not only love for others that is encompassed by this virtue, but the actions accompanying it. Charity is love in action; it's useless if you by-pass opportunities to show charity for others in your life.
4. Continue to follow God's will no matter how difficult life becomes. This is the virtue of "Fortitude." It is hope in action. Always fulfill your obligations even when you can see no point in continuing or when others seek to keep you from practicing this virtue. Eventually you'll push through the adversity and see the fruits of your labors.
5. Practice the virtue of "Justice." Everyone expects others to be treated fairly, but often we forget to exercise fair practice to others. In the "Our Father" you ask God to forgive your trespasses as you forgive the trespasses of others. In other words, you're asking God to treat you the way you treat others. If you treat others justly, then God will do the same for you.
6. Manage your life with "Prudence" in all areas, including money, actions and words. This virtue must rule your decisions; if you want a new car but might run into debt with the purchase it would be prudent to make do with what you have. If you have a tendency to gossip it is prudent to hold your tongue.
7. Be "Temperate" in all you do. The virtue of "Temperance" is often mistaken for a warning against overindulgence in alcohol, but it's meant to cover all aspects of life. This includes gluttony, greed and intemperance. Use what you need, do not wish for more than you have and let go of things that lead you away from the fruitful life God has planned for you.