A New Conviction to Observe "Lent"

I have always celebrated Easter, but have never observed "Lent" before. I honestly feel the Holy Spirit leading me to observe it this year. I have been praying about what I could give up that would be a sacrifice.

Lent is a period of fasting and penitence (self-examination and repentance) during which observers have traditionally (historically) eaten sparingly. The 40-day length of the fast was established in the 4th century. Following some of these ancient Christian practices (seasons) can indeed be of spiritual benefit.

The word Lent is a Teutonic word that meant "the spring season". I also found that it was taken from the word "lengthening", and related to the spring season, because the days are longer in the spring season.

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the single most important event in the history of the world (and therefore also in Christianity), making Easter the most important Holiday (Holy Day) celebrated by Christians. The Christian season of Lent can be used as a time to draw closer to God in preparation of this annual celebration. It is a form of emulation of our Lord's example in His 40-day Fast in the wilderness (deserts) of Judaea in preparation for his public ministry.
You can use the time to pray for your personal ministry, your family, or whatever you feel led to pray for.
One way to observe Lent is to "deny yourself" in some way regarding food and drink (a "partial fast" of eating less than usual, or temporarily "giving up" desserts, meat, a meal, or whatever you may choose) and to replace this with extra time devoted to prayer and Bible reading/study, or the reading of a Christian book.

I am currently reading and listening to Beth Moore's book, "So Long, Insecurity", and it is a great blessing to me.

I have lots of great Christian books. Today, I picked up one that I had read through a couple times before, "Life Management for Busy Women-Living Out God's Plan with Passion & Purpose-Growth and Study Guide", by Elizabeth George.

As I read through the pages of responses that I had written, I kept reading, "I do have a consistent morning quiet time with God, spending time in His word and in prayer."

At the time that I wrote that, I was not working full time.

I have been convicted lately, that I need to get out of bed earlier, and make it a priority, like my son does, to spend a good amount of quality, quiet time with God first thing in the morning. . .and again at night, too. . .and to really never cease praying!

I'm still praying about what food or drink to give up.

I have decided that I am going to give up an hour in bed each morning, to spend reading the Bible and praying.

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