Here’s what I’m NOT giving up for Lent
I’ve frequently observed the traditional giving something up each year during Lent as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice for me. Common thing I hear as suggestions from others social media, excess TV watching, swearing, pop, and of course sweets. These days it seems lots of people just end up using Lent as a reason to diet, which can be frustrating (not the point)! Although, if Jesus is the motivation you need to make some positive life changes, then go for it.
I talked to Julie on Friday and she gave me the idea of adding something in. Doing something a little extra to better yourself and draw you closer to your faith. It reminds me of the concept of adding in when pursuing a healthier lifestyle — instead of focusing on restricting certain foods why not just make an effort to add in a salad, or a fruit, or an extra glass of water? Focus on doing more things that encourage health instead of labeling other things as “bad.”
So yes, I will still be following tradition and giving something up this year. But I’ll also be taking a few minutes each day to focus on these spiritually healthy habits. These are habits that often fall by the wayside, especially with a busy schedule. They are things that always keep me more rooted in my faith. The best part is the effect that spills over into the rest of my life. I am calmer and more centered when I make time with God a regular part of my life.
- Seek the Father.
- Embrace the outcasts.
- Run the race set before you.
- Glorify God in some way, every day.
- Put people first.
- Pray… a lot.
- Do things with excellence.
- Be loyal. Value team.
- Live a balanced life. Love God, love people.
- Keep things simple.
- Pray daily for wisdom.
- Set healthy boundaries.
- Confront hypocrisy.
- Teach the Word.
- Pray for God’s vision, not yours.
- Serve the poor. We’ll learn more from them than they’ll learn from us.
- Never forget, you’re not the only tool in God’s toolbox.
- Never allow yourself to think you’re indispensable.
- Walk with the Spirit daily.
- See everything, overlook a lot, correct a little.
- Don’t use words carelessly.
- Don’t forget your identity–child of God.
- Be you, not someone else.
- Don’t quarrel. Think before yelling.
- Read widely, not just stuff you agree with.
- Never be co-opted by politics.
- Don’t forget, we deserve Hell. It’s all grace.
- Admit you could be wrong about many things.
- Take risks.
- Don’t throw away your reputation by making foolish, impulsive choices.
- Don’t spend too much time being worldly.
- Be trustworthy.
- Don’t pull rank unless there are no other options.
- Don’t be afraid of humiliation. It teaches humility.
- Delegate things.
- Practice spiritual disciplines.
- Forgive quickly. Don’t keep score.
0 Comments