what to give up for lent

2 min read 15-04-2025

Giving something up for Lent is a tradition observed by many Christians during the 40 days leading up to Easter. It's a time of reflection, repentance, and spiritual growth. But choosing the right thing to give up can be challenging. This guide offers ideas and insights to help you make a meaningful sacrifice this Lent.

Beyond Chocolate: Finding Meaningful Lenten Sacrifices

The common misconception is that Lent is simply about giving up chocolate or soda. While those are certainly valid choices, the true spirit of Lent lies in self-reflection and spiritual growth. What area of your life needs improvement? What habits hinder your relationship with God and others? Your Lenten sacrifice should address these questions.

Identifying Areas for Growth:

Before deciding what to give up, consider these questions:

What are my bad habits? Do you spend too much time on social media? Are you prone to anger or impatience? Do you struggle with gossip? Identifying these habits is the first step.
What drains my energy? Are there activities or relationships that leave you feeling depleted? Giving these up can free you to focus on more positive aspects of your life.
What hinders my spiritual life? Is there something preventing you from spending quality time in prayer or Bible study? Consider giving up distractions that impede your spiritual journey.
What could I do more of? Instead of focusing solely on giving up, consider what you could take up—like daily prayer, volunteering, or acts of kindness. This can complement your sacrifice.

Ideas for Lenten Sacrifices:

Here are some ideas, ranging from common to less conventional choices, categorized for easier consideration:

Common Lenten Sacrifices:

Social Media: A digital detox can foster deeper relationships and reduce anxiety.
Sweet Treats: Giving up sugary snacks can improve your health and discipline.
Specific Foods/Drinks: Choosing a particular food or drink to forgo can be a test of willpower.
Television/Streaming: This frees up time for prayer, reading, or spending time with loved ones.

Less Common, More Meaningful Sacrifices:

Complaining: Consciously choosing positive language can transform your perspective.
Negative Self-Talk: Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with affirmations.
Gossiping: Protecting others' reputations builds stronger relationships.
Impatience: Practicing patience cultivates inner peace and empathy.
Procrastination: Tackling tasks promptly boosts productivity and reduces stress.
Excessive Spending: Saving money can free resources for charitable giving.
Time Wasting Activities: Identify activities that don't add value to your life.

Making Your Sacrifice Meaningful:

Choose wisely: Select a sacrifice that is challenging but achievable. Don't set yourself up for failure.
Set intentions: Reflect on why you're making this sacrifice. What do you hope to achieve?
Seek support: Talk to a friend, family member, or spiritual advisor for encouragement.
Be kind to yourself: If you slip up, don't beat yourself up. Just get back on track.
Focus on growth: Use this time for personal reflection and spiritual growth.

What to Do Instead: Positive Actions for Lent

Lent isn't just about giving up; it's also about taking up positive habits. Consider adding these to your Lenten practice:

Daily Prayer and Bible Study: Deepen your relationship with God.
Acts of Charity and Service: Volunteer at a local charity or help those in need.
Acts of Kindness: Perform small acts of kindness for others.
Increased Self-Care: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being.

This Lent, choose a sacrifice that truly resonates with you. Make it a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth, not just a temporary deprivation. May your Lenten season be a time of blessing and renewal.