What should I give up for Lent?
Lent has already kicked off for 2021, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to participate if you missed out on the start. The spirit of Lent is to give up something as a means of remembering the sacrifice of Jesus. Traditionally, Lent lasts for 40 days up until Easter. However, there is no time or date on making such an observance. The beautiful thing about Lent is that a large multitude of Christians around the world observe it together, and there is something powerful about that, but you can always observe your own fast on your own time.
Whether you are looking to get on board with Lent this year or are looking for ideas for a personal fast on your own time, you can use some of the following ideas of what to give up that could help bend your mind toward God during this time.
Five ideas for things you could give up for Lent
Streaming — Spend a lot of time on Netflix, Hulu or Prime Video? Giving up using these streaming services not only helps you bend your mind toward God during Lent, but can free up your time for a wide range of other activities you’ve been overlooking.
Fast food — Giving up fast food is beneficial for your body as well as your soul during Lent.
Video games — Many of us play video games for entertainment or to pass the time. Try giving up video games for Lent and you may be surprised at how much time you have to focus on other things. If giving up all video games seems too difficult, try eliminating only certain platforms. For example, you could stop playing games on your Xbox One or PS5 but still allow yourself some time on mobile games every now and then.
Coffee — Whoa, put away the pitchforks. We get it. Coffee is the third liquid of life force behind blood and water. That’s what makes giving it up for Lent so powerful. And rather than suffer any caffeine withdrawals, you can opt for a cup of black tea every day instead. We know, it’s not the same, but it can help you give up coffee for Lent without giving yourself a headache every day too.
Alcohol — Like to have a glass of wine with dinner? Like to drink more than that on weekends (or other days of the week; we’re not judging)? Giving up on alcohol for Lent can be beneficial for your health as much as it is for helping you focus on God.
These are but a few examples of items or activities you can give up for Lent. What in your life do you think it would be hard to go without for 40 days? You don’t need to do something impractical like giving up your vehicle, but you should give up something that will have an impact and serve and force you to remember the reason why you’re doing it.
And remember, God doesn't require us to fast. It is a good thing that helps draw us nearer to Him, but if you can’t do it, it’s OK. Whether you fast for all of Lent, part of it or none of it at all, God still loves you!
Fasting is for your personal spiritual benefit, not to earn God’s favor.
Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey
At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. We are currently going through a new sermon series titled “To Hell With Normal.” It’s all about redefining what we consider normal in life as we seek to make our lives more like the way Jesus would have them to be.
Do you want to grow in your faith or are you simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.