St Thomas Aquinas said fortitude has two parts: attacking and enduring. Sometimes it means charging into danger, like a soldier or a firefighter. More often, he said, it means endurance: standing firm in a long illness, a hard marriage, a job you can’t leave, or a faith that’s mocked. Endurance, Aquinas thought, is the greater part.
Historical Context
A Prayer of Fortitude
Holy Spirit, give me the gift of fortitude.
When I’m afraid, give me courage.
When I’m worn out, give me endurance.
When doing the right thing will cost me, give me resolve.
Keep me from running away from hard things you’ve asked me to face.
Let me stand firm, not by my own strength, but by yours.
Amen.
For Endurance in Suffering
Lord, this has gone on a long time.
I don’t need to be brave forever; just today.
Give me strength for today.
Amen.
For Moral Courage
Lord, help me speak up when silence would be easier.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- Before a confirmation, asking for the gifts of the Spirit.
- During a long illness or hardship.
- Before a confrontation or difficult decision.
Scripture Connection
“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” — Joshua 1:9
God’s command to Joshua comes with a reason: “the LORD thy God is with thee.” Fortitude isn’t gritting your teeth alone. It’s knowing who’s standing beside you.
Related prayers
For courage, see the Forty Martyrs (March 10 Prayer) and Sts Thomas More and John Fisher (June 22 Prayer). For spiritual battle, the Armor of God Prayer.