We should not be satisfied merely to keep the commandments of God, but should always be ready to do good deeds, even when they are not commanded. The commandments of God state the minimum requirements for salvation. They should be kept not merely according to the letter, but also according to the spirit, which obliges us to strive for greater perfection.
Actual sin is any willful thought, desire, word, action or ommission forbidden by the law of God.
Deadly Sin
|
Definition
|
Contrary Virtue
|
Pride
|
Unrestrained appreciation of our own worth
|
Humility
|
Greed
|
Immoderate desire for earthly goods
| Liberality |
Lust
|
Hankering for impure pleasures
| Chastity |
Anger
|
Inordinate desire for revenge
| Meekness |
Gluttony
|
Unrestrained use of food and drink
| Temperance |
Envy
|
Sorrow over another's good fortune
| Brotherly Love |
Sloth
|
Laxity in keeping the Faith and the practice of virtue
| Diligence |
Note:
The 7 Deadly Sins, also known as "The 7 Capital Sins," are those sins that give rise to other sins. They were first enumerated by Pope St. Gregory the Great in "Moralia in Job."