Came across this little article by The Rev.
Craig Gates, Jackson, MS, "WHAT TO GIVE UP FOR LENT". Do you remember
those days when we were younger and the pastor of the church encouraged us all
to give up something for Lent? He was usually thinking of us giving up a candy
bar or a Coke or a slice of pizza. Our minds usually went down the line of
broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower or some such nonsense. We just didn’t
get it did we.
Then pastors started getting creative,
as illustrated by this list by Pastor Gates, as an attempt to further us along
our spiritual journey. To “give up” something during Lent had a deeper meaning.
We were to replace what we gave up with prayer, fasting and a deeper devotion
to God during these days leading up to Easter.
Maybe as adults we still don’t get it
and Mr. Gates has provided us with a valuable teaching on the purpose of our
Lenten journey. At least that is my reason for sharing it in todays blog.
Happy journey!
Give Up
GIVE UP grumbling! Instead, "In
everything give thanks." Constructive criticism is OK, but "moaning,
groaning, and complaining" are not Christian disciplines.
GIVE UP 10 to 15 minutes in bed!
Instead, use that time in prayer, Bible study and personal devotion.
GIVE UP looking at other people's worst
points. Instead concentrate on their best points. We all have faults. It is a
lot easier to have people overlook our shortcomings when we overlook theirs
first.
GIVE UP speaking unkindly. Instead, let
your speech be generous and understanding. It costs so little to say something
kind and uplifting. Why not check that sharp tongue at the door?
GIVE UP your hatred of anyone or
anything! Instead, learn the discipline of love. "Love covers a multitude
of sins."
GIVE UP your worries and anxieties!
Instead, trust God with them. Anxiety is spending emotional energy on something
we can do nothing about: like tomorrow! Live today and let God's grace be
sufficient.
GIVE UP TV one evening a week! Instead,
visit some lonely or sick person. There are those who are isolated by illness
or age. Why isolate yourself in front of the "tube?" Give someone a
precious gift: your time!
GIVE UP buying anything but essentials
for yourself! Instead, give the money to God. The money you would spend on the
luxuries could help someone meet basic needs. We are called to be stewards of
God's riches, not consumers.
GIVE UP judging by appearances and by
the standard of the world! Instead, learn to give up yourself to God. There is
only one who has the right to judge, Jesus Christ.
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