Uncovering Virtue’s Hidden Code: The Surprising Link Between Stoicism and Christianity

Uncovering Virtue’s Hidden Code: The Surprising Link Between Stoicism and Christianity

Alright, I’ll admit it—you might be thinking, “Wait, haven’t we talked about these virtues before?” And yes, you’re right. But what can I say? I’m knee-deep in the works of Saint Thomas Aquinas right now, and these insights are just too good not to share (again). 


If you’re here for some fresh thoughts on prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, buckle up—because today we’re diving into how both Stoicism and Christianity are on the same page when it comes to living the virtuous life.

When we think of Christian virtues, most of us are familiar with faith, hope, and charity—thanks to Saint Paul. But that’s not the whole story! In fact, Saint Thomas Aquinas dug deeper into the world of virtues and discovered that ancient Stoic philosophy had already laid the groundwork for four key virtues that both philosophies cherish: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance.

In this post, we’re going to uncover how these four cardinal virtues are the secret sauce that can help anyone—whether you follow the Stoics or Aquinas—live a life of integrity, purpose, and happiness.

What Are the Cardinal Virtues?

The four cardinal virtues are not just ancient relics of philosophical thought. They’re practical and relevant today. Whether you’re facing tough decisions at work or trying to find balance in your personal life, these virtues can guide you.

Prudence: The Guide to Good Decisions

Prudence is all about making wise choices. It’s the virtue that helps you figure out the best course of action in any situation. For the Stoics, prudence means aligning your decisions with reason and nature, while for Aquinas, it’s about making choices that align with God’s will.

Justice: Fairness for All

We all want to be treated fairly, right? Justice is about giving others their due, and it’s a value that Stoics and Christians alike hold dear. For the Stoics, it’s about fairness and social harmony. For Aquinas, it’s an expression of love and respect for others.

Fortitude: Courage Under Pressure

Whether you’re dealing with a stressful situation at work or a personal challenge, fortitude is the virtue that helps you stay strong. The Stoics call it resilience, while Aquinas sees it as the courage to endure challenges while remaining faithful to God’s plan.

Temperance: The Key to Balance

Temperance is all about self-control and moderation. It helps you keep your desires and impulses in check—whether it’s resisting the temptation of that extra dessert or keeping a cool head in an argument. The Stoics valued moderation as a path to inner peace, while Aquinas saw temperance as essential for living a balanced life.

Stoicism and Christianity: More Alike Than You Think

At first glance, Stoicism and Christianity might seem worlds apart. But when it comes to living a virtuous life, they actually share a lot of common ground. Both agree that these four virtues are essential for personal integrity and happiness. While the Stoics emphasize living in harmony with nature, Aquinas connects these virtues to our relationship with God and our eternal purpose.

In short, whether you’re a Stoic or a Christian, these virtues are your secret weapon for navigating life with grace, strength, and wisdom.

Call to Action

If you’re ready to dive deeper into the wisdom of Stoicism and Christianity, be sure to check out my blog, The Stoic Journal. I explore how these virtues can help you live a more meaningful, balanced life every day. And don’t forget to join our Facebook group for insightful discussions, exclusive content, and a community of like-minded individuals on their own journey of growth.

Start your journey to a virtuous, happy life today!


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