Faith is the virtue by which we firmly believe all the truths God has revealed, on the word of God revealing them, Who can neither deceive nor be deceived. "Faith is the substance of things to be hoped for, the evidence of things that are not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). "Blessed are they who have not seen, and yet have believed" (John 20:29).

    Faith is belief in a truth on the world of another, though that truth be not fully understood. In a trial, the judge believes the testimony of a witness known to be an honest man. When a fact is so obvious as "it is dark at midnight," no belief is needed; that is known and fully understood.

    Divine faith is belief in a truth or mystery known only because God revealed it. It is grace that helps us to attain faith and to persevere in it, to take God's word for whatever He has revealed. Faith is supernatural because we cannot by ourselves acquire it. It is a gift of God. It is, however, increased by prayer and continual exercise: the apostles prayed to the Lord, "Increase our faith" (Luke 17:5).

    Without faith, it is impossible to be saved. Our faith must be firm and complete; that is, both certain and all-encompassing. We must not cease praying for increase of faith, for it is necessary for salvation. "Without faith, it is impossible to please God" (Hebrews 11:6). "He that does not believe shall be condemned" (Mark 16:6). If we are doubtful on any matters of faith, considering opposite viewpoints as possibly true, then we deny God's authority. If we accept some truths, and deny others, then that is denying God altogether.

    Hope is the virtue by which we firmly trust that God, Who is all-powerful and faithful to His promises, will in His mercy give us eternal happiness and the means to obtain it. God promised to give man eternal life, and the means to obtain it. In this promise is our hope. "He that puts his trust in Me shall inherit the land, and shall possess My holy mount" (Isaiah 57:13).

    Hope is necessary for salvation. Our hope must be firmly founded in God, Who promised to give us the means for salvation. Such firm hope, however, would not exclude reasonable fear of the loss of our soul. Very often we fall far short of the proper use of the means of salvation granted us.

    Charity is the virtue by which we love God above all things for His own sake, and our neighbor as ourselves, for the love of God. Charity is the queen of virtues. It unites God and man perfectly in love. It also unites man and man, for the love of God.

    To love God above all things, we must be willing to renounce all created things rather than offend Him by sin. We should often speak to God in acts of love, opening our hearts to Him.

    In Heaven faith and hope will cease; for we cannot need faith for what we already know, nor can we desire what we already possess. But for all eternity we shall have charity: we can love God forever.

Friday: The Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit part one