Most of us know the meaning of Lent. Heres a definition,
Lent (Latin: Quadragesima: Fortieth) is a solemn religious observance in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends approximately six weeks later, before Easter Sunday.
Through the years I have seen many takeup a fast during Lent like skipping all 3 meals or just 1 meal, or giving up eating meat or alcohol or anything they fancy. More recently I have seen people giving up social networks like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat etc. Some movie addicts give up watching movies for these 40 days.
Basically, in my opinion, I think giving up favourite things like food and entertainment is a good way to discipline ourselves. Its a great way to exercise selfcontrol and at the same time dedicating these 40 days exclusively to meditate on the sufferings of JESUS and agony of the cross is a great way to feed our Spirit man.
I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death Phil:3:10(NLT)
that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death(NKJV)
I always have wondered what it means to fellowship with HIS sufferings. When you read and meditate on the crucification of JESUS, you will recognize that JESUS not only died physically but HE died in every aspect to his self. We will be meditating more on this during the lent.
But to start with I felt the HOLY SPIRIT put this on my heart, all that GOD desires is obedience from us.
But Samuel replied, “What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. I Sam:15:22
Yes all that GOD wants from us is obedience.When we obey HIS word, it shows that we truly love HIM.
“If you love me, obey my commandments.” John:14:15
If you have not planned on what you are going to give up this lent, here’s a list of things you can giveup,
- Anger
- Lie
- Gossip
- Bad Mouth
- Bitterness
- Jealousy
- Pride
- Ego
- Selfishness
- Addictions
Dying to one’s self is a great idea to start the lent. Make your own list and try to practise. Once you are sincere to follow through, I’m sure it will become a habit.
Also start practising the fruits of the HOLY SPIRIT,
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law. Gal:5:22,23
Lets put extra effort during this lent to willingly exhibit these qualities.
Have a fruitful Lent!!!
Spiritual Nuggets 4 U 