When it proves difficult or even dangerous to do the good and act with justice, we call upon the cardinal virtue of fortitude. Fortitude concerns the cluster of virtues having to do with the will: courage, patience, steadfastness, perseverance. It is not simply the lack of fear, but a carefully considered action for good in the face of difficulty. The Greek statesman Pericles explained it thus: "For this is our manner: to take the greatest risks where we have thought matters through most carefully. Among others, however, only ignorance produces bravery, while reflection causes trembling."[i]
The Scriptures are replete with calls to and examples of fortitude. King David advises Solomon to "be strong and of good courage, and act. Do not be afraid or dismayed; for the LORD God, my God, is with you."[ii] Jesus advises his disciples in the face of persecution that" anyone who endures to the end will be saved."[iii] James advises us to "be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You also must be patient... Indeed we call blessed those who showed endurance. You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful."[iv]
The ultimate Christian model of fortitude is the martyr, the one who gives his life for God and imitates Christ himself. As we contemplate this third cardinal virtue, let us consider that in the world we will have tribulation; but we can be of good cheer, for Christ has overcome the world.[v]
[i] A Brief Reader on the Virtues of the Human Heart by Josef Pieper
[ii] I Chronicles 28:20
[iii] Matthew 24:13
[iv] James 5:7-12
[v] John 16:33
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