Topical Bible: Character of Saints: Prudent

Bible > Topical > Character of Saints

◄ Character of Saints: Prudent ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The character trait of prudence is highly esteemed in the biblical narrative and is considered a hallmark of the saints. Prudence, often synonymous with wisdom and discernment, involves the ability to govern and discipline oneself through the use of reason. It is the capacity to judge correctly in matters of conduct and to make decisions that align with God's will.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently extols the virtue of prudence, associating it with wisdom and understanding. In Proverbs 8:12 , wisdom personified declares, "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion." This verse highlights the close relationship between wisdom and prudence, suggesting that true wisdom cannot exist without the prudent application of knowledge.

Prudence is also linked to foresight and careful planning. Proverbs 14:8 states, "The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools deceives them." Here, prudence is portrayed as the ability to navigate life's path with insight and clarity, avoiding the pitfalls that ensnare the foolish.

Prudence in Action

The prudent person is characterized by thoughtful consideration and measured responses. In Proverbs 22:3 , it is written, "The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and suffer the consequences." This verse illustrates the practical aspect of prudence, where the prudent individual anticipates potential dangers and takes appropriate action to avoid harm.

The New Testament also emphasizes the importance of prudence among believers. In Matthew 10:16 , Jesus instructs His disciples, "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." This admonition underscores the need for prudence in the face of adversity, combining shrewdness with purity of heart.

Prudence and Spiritual Growth

Prudence is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. It enables believers to discern God's will and to live in a manner that is pleasing to Him. Ephesians 5:15-17 advises, "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." Prudence, in this context, involves making the most of every opportunity and aligning one's life with divine purposes.

Prudence in Relationships

In interpersonal relationships, prudence fosters peace and understanding. Proverbs 12:16 notes, "A fool’s anger is known at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult." The prudent person exercises restraint and chooses to overlook minor offenses, promoting harmony and avoiding unnecessary conflict.

Conclusion

The character of prudence is integral to the life of a saint, guiding them in wise decision-making, fostering spiritual growth, and enhancing relationships. Through prudence, believers reflect the wisdom of God and navigate the complexities of life with grace and discernment.

Nave's Topical Index

Proverbs 16:21
The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increases learning.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem ...
... This letter throws much light on the private character of Paul, and ... "The poor saints"
that were in ... with this collection, he, no doubt, deemed it prudent to put ...
/.../killen/the ancient church/chapter ix pauls epistles his.htm

Luther --A Stone on the Cairn
... strangely out of place amongst doctors and mediaeval saints. ... things that strike one
in the character are the ... that were 'hid from the wise and prudent,' and the ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/luthera stone on the cairn.htm

Why are Men Saved?
... greater stains, converted into hypocrites, and not into saints. ... the 7th verse, and
you will have their character. ... not always to the wise and prudent, but unto ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 3 1857/why are men saved.htm

Introduction
... the childhood and youth of the mystical saints, he begged ... naive: yet as an index
of character, an augury ... precedence of that milder and more prudent change of ...
//christianbookshelf.org/rolle/the fire of love/introduction.htm

Select Works and Letters or Athanasius
... And Antony also was exceeding prudent, and the wonder was that although he had? ... He
acted according to the example of the Saints. Character of his accusers. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/athanasius/select works and letters or athanasius/

The Unjust Steward
All Saints' Day and Other Sermons. ... He must have been a man of a strange
character"very unlike ... falsehood or dishonesty is ever either wise or prudent, but ...
/.../kingsley/all saints day and other sermons/sermon xlii the unjust steward.htm

The Present Recompense
All Saints' Day and Other Sermons. ... We see that that character, though it be still
imperfect, and ... the things which God hides from the wise and prudent, and yet ...
/.../all saints day and other sermons/sermon xxix the present recompense.htm

The Armour of God
... head, and keep his mind calm, prudent, strong, and ... can no more change our own character
than we ... all perseverance, and supplication for all saints.' Those who ...
/.../kingsley/discipline and other sermons/sermon xi the armour of god.htm

The Extraordinary Teachers of the Apostolic Church; and Its ...
... for the perfecting of the saints, for the ... were not strictly of a spiritual character;
these ministers ... the Church should be grave, sober, prudent, and benevolent ...
/.../killen/the ancient church/chapter ii the extraordinary teachers.htm

Grace and Glory
All Saints' Day and Other Sermons. ... the bands of love, attracting them by the very
human character of its ... is too often hidden from the wise and prudent, and yet ...
/.../kingsley/all saints day and other sermons/sermon xxxv grace and glory.htm