What Should I Give Up For LENT ?

Many of us try to be more disciplined for Lent and give up something that we really like. That’s great! Fasting has always been an important tradition of Lent.

This year however, let us also consider other things that we can give up.

Give up complaining - Focus on Gratitude

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure.(Philippians 2:14-15)
Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Give up bitterness - Turn to forgiveness

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. (Ephesians 4:31)
Be kind and compassionate to one another forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32)

Give up worry - Trust in God

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life… who by worrying can add a single hour to his life? (Matthew 6:25)
But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33)

Give up discouragement - Be full of hope

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you: he will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. (Deuteronomy 31:8)
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

Give up hatred - Return good for evil

Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. (1 John 2:9)
But I tell you who hear me; Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you. (Luke 6:27)

Give up anger - Be more patient

But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. (Matthew 5:22)
A hot tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel. (Proverbs 15:18)

Give up gossiping - Control your tongue

Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. (Psalm 34:13)
He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity. (Proverbs 21:23)

Take some time to think about what you want to give up this year and may it help you to turn towards GOD in this holy season of LENT.

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