The Instruments of Good Works

To deny yourself, in order to follow Christ (Matt 16:24; Luke 9:23). To chastise the body (1 Cor. 9:27): not to seek after delicate living: to love fasting. To relieve the poor; to clothe the naked, to visiti the sick (Matt. 25:36), to bury the dead. To help in affliction; to console the sorrowing.

Rule of Benedict, Chapter 4