Today is the first day of Lent. This is the beginning of a 40-day period leading up to Easter. For many Christians, over the next 40 days they have made the decision to give up something.

Growing up, our church didn’t observe Lent, but my Catholic friends did. All I really understood about it was that they would give up candy and we would have fish for lunch every Friday. I liked fish (still do), so I liked it when Lent rolled around.

As I’ve grown older and wiser, I’ve come to a better understanding of what Lent is all about and how it should impact the believer.

During the Lent season, one is not just to give up something, but as this sacrifice is made, their relationship with Jesus is to become deeper. Over this period of time, the richness of this relationship is to become more intense. The believer is to draw closer to God.

Obviously, the simple act of giving up something isn’t going to deepen that relationship. Something else must be added in order for this transformation to occur. So what should be added to the life of a believer who is seeking this change in their life? Well, we should be seeking God and His will for our lives through:

• Bible Reading/Study
• Prayer
• Scripture Memorization
• Worship
• Service
• Silence and Solitude
• Rest

Do you recall the words of Jesus’ half-brother James from James 4:8 (NIV)? “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” As we draw near to the One True God, our lives will be transformed. Our relationship with Him will be rekindled and revitalized. We will find spiritual growth.

Perhaps you haven’t thought about observing Lent or sacrificially giving up something during this time period. But maybe you should. What is the one thing that seems to stand between you and God? Is it an electronic device? Is it the television? Is it a person? A relationship? Would it be shopping? Or maybe it’s an attitude?

Friend, our enemy has one job. He will do anything and everything in his power to keep you from having a thriving relationship with God. His plan is to keep you preoccupied, busy or unengaged with God. The devil’s desire is for you to be a lukewarm Christian or a backslider. He does not want you to be bold in your faith and walk with the Lord.

So what are you going to do about it? Continue on with life as usual or will you make the commitment to draw closer to God? Will you allow the devil to pull you away from God or will you take a stand against his schemes?

I pray that you will take the time today to evaluate your spiritual journey. I pray that you will not allow this next 40 days to be like the last 40. Keep growing. Keep drawing closer. Keep on the path that God has set before you. Do not be moved. Easter is just around the corner and that is just the beginning!

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna