“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5 (BSB)
“The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools deceives them.” – Proverbs 14:8 (BSB)
“Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” – Ephesians 5:15–17 (BSB)
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best, and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” – Philippians 1:9–10 (BSB)
This virtue grows as we surrender our understanding to God’s Word and Spirit. Bishop Trevor Walters (ANiC, Emeritus) writes, “The prudent person doesn’t trust instinct or impulse, but discerns the path of righteousness through Scripture, godly counsel, and patient obedience.” (The Way of Wisdom, 2020)
Prudence is especially needed in a world full of distractions and deceptions. Fr. Caleb Evans (Anglican Orthodox Church, St. Stephen’s Mission, GA) notes, “Prudence teaches us not only to choose the good, but to reject the seemingly good that leads away from God. It is wisdom tested by time, tempered by prayer, and faithful to truth.” (Catechesis for the Discerning Life, 2022)
In the Anglican tradition, prudence is developed through a life of ordered worship and daily attentiveness to God’s presence. Canon George Grant (ACNA, Parish Presbyterian Church, TN) writes, “The prudent Christian is slow to speak, eager to learn, and resolved to act in holiness. Prudence is practical holiness—wisdom with shoes on.” (Recovering Anglican Piety, 2019)
Fr. Thomas Buchan (Anglican Union, St. Mark’s Anglican Church, VA) adds, “Prudence is what keeps zeal from turning reckless, and knowledge from becoming pride. It is the virtue that joins heart and head in humble obedience.” (The Life of Virtue in Christ, 2022)
“He who walks in prudence walks in the light. Let your steps be measured, and your words few but wise.” – Basil the Great, Rules for the Christian Life, c. 375 AD
“Prudence is not slowness to act, but readiness to do what is right at the right time.” – John Chrysostom, Homily on Proverbs, c. 390 AD
“The prudent man weighs his words, listens well, and chooses peace over strife. In him is the wisdom that reflects God.” – Cyprian of Carthage, On the Duties of the Clergy, c. 250 AD
An Anglican Catechism (Expanded) offers over 350+ Scripture-based answers to the core truths of the Christian faith. Each entry includes biblical texts, theological insight, and reflections from historic and contemporary Anglican voices. Rooted in the classical tradition, it is designed for teaching, discipleship, and spiritual formation.
An Ancient Worship Movement invites readers into the rich, historic worship of the early Church rediscovered through the Anglican tradition. This book calls believers into a deeper, Spirit-filled encounter with Christ through timeless practices.
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