Bible 101: Lent
What is lent really about?
If you’ve ever heard someone mention “giving something up for Lent” and quietly wondered what Lent actually is, you’re not alone. For some, the day feels deeply familiar. For others, it can feel like a foreign concept they never learned about.
Lent isn’t about religious pressure or perfection. At its core, Lent is an invitation, an intentional season that creates space for reflection, repentance, and renewed closeness with God.
*Scroll to bottom for a prayer for Lent
When is Lent?
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for 40 days (not including Sundays), leading up to Easter Sunday. The dates change every year because Easter follows the lunar calendar, but Lent always starts in late winter or early spring.
“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” -Matthew 4:1 (NIV)
The 40 days represent the time Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness before beginning His ministry. (You can look up Matthew 4:1–11 in the Bible for further reference). Mirroring that season of preparation, it represents a slowing down before celebration.
What is Lent?
Lent is a season observed by many Christians as a time of spiritual reflection and renewal. Traditionally, it includes practices like fasting, prayer, repentance, and generosity.
Rather than focusing on what we’re losing, let it invites us to consider what we’re making room for. It’s about removing distractions so we can better hear God’s voice and align our hearts with His.
In summary, it is not about earning God’s love or proving spiritual discipline. It’s about returning, again and again, to grace.
Why do people "give up something" for Lent?
Many people choose to fast from something during Lent as a way to redirect their attention toward God. Common things people give up include certain foods, sweets, social media, or entertainment. The idea is that while giving something up, you increase time spent in prayer or Scripture, reinforcing the idea that the purpose isn’t self-denial; rather, it’s a time for a spiritual refocus.
Looking for some realistic or out-of-the-box things to give up this year? Check out these 20 ideas you may not have otherwise thought of!
What Lent Is and Isn't
What Lent is:
- A season of reflection and repentance
- An invitation to deepen your relationship with God
- A focus on your heart posture
- A time to prepare your heart for Easter
What Lent is not:
- A test of spiritual strength
- Giving up something just for the sake of it
- A requirement for salvation
- About guilt, shame, or perfection
*Tip: If fasting something feels unfamiliar or difficult, that’s okay. Some people choose to add something meaningful instead– like daily prayer for lent, Scripture reading, or acts of generosity and service. So adding to your day instead of the assumed “giving something up”.
A Prayer for Lent
“God, thank You for inviting me into this season of reflection. What a gift that is. As Lent begins, please help me slow down and listen for Your voice. Reveal and remove any distractions that have come in the way of my relationship with you. Teach me to release what no longer strengthens my faith and draw closer to You through prayer, humility, and trust. Remove anxiety, fear and worry from this season and replace them with supernatural peace that only comes from You. Prepare my heart for the hope and joy of Easter, and remind me that Your grace meets me exactly where I am. Thank you for this opportunity to evaluate my spiritual health and make adjustments so I can re-prioritize what really matters.
Amen.”
Scripture quotations taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV® Copyright © 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
