Virtues of Character

Fortitude/Courage

Courage prevents us from 'bottling it' in the face of living for that which is noble and good, whatever the sacrifice might be to attain this. It helps us to work towards something of greater value - it especially helps us to overcome our fear of death. Heroes have courage - but only the prudent man can be courageous - only the one who can really see where he is going, who really understands the true destiny of man. There is no merit in dying for a dodgy cause, a cause which is contrary to any of the virtues.

Challenges to this: to live as a Christian in the world today is increasingly going to require courage. Many mock, ridicule, criminalise, misunderstand, misinform and are suspicious of Christians today - particularly in certain sections of the media. A deep seated prejudice appears to be emerging against Christianity. We should expect more of this kind of thing. It will take courage to live the Christian life and to witness to it.