“I am your Jesus, born Incarnate. I have come today to help you understand the virtue of prudence. The first rule of prudence is righteousness – that is, obedience to God's commandments. Prudence dictates the avoidance of excess in thought, word, or deed. A soul may be wise, but still lack prudence. For instance, a wise soul may – in trying to make a point – state his view over and over, not knowing when enough has been said. This shows lack of trust in My grace. I'll tell you why. This type of soul makes his point, but is unwilling to state his case and [then] let grace do the rest. He cannot allow grace to carry the point into the heart. He seems to think everything depends on his efforts.”

“Prudence governs all the virtues. Sometimes we do not prudently use the virtues. Sometimes a person is too patient and does not speak up in the face of wrong. Or he may show love by spoiling a child and giving in to the child excessively.”

“Prudence is not synonymous with self-righteousness either. For the prudent person seeks to know himself better, searches out his weaknesses and works on them. The simple-hearted soul has little difficulty with prudence, but the proud-hearted find this virtue elusive.”