What Is Lent? Understanding the Season That Prepares Our Hearts

What Is Lent? Understanding the Season That Prepares Our Hearts

Every year, Christians around the world observe a season called Lent, but what is Lent really about? Is it just about giving something up, or is there something deeper going on?

Lent is an invitation. It’s a season set apart to slow down, refocus our hearts, and intentionally seek the Lord as we prepare for the celebration of Easter.

What Is Lent?

Lent is a 40-day season of spiritual preparation leading up to Easter Sunday. The 40 days (not counting Sundays) mirror Jesus’ time of fasting and prayer in the wilderness before He began His public ministry (Matthew 4:1–11).

Traditionally, Lent lasts 40 days, begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter. While Sundays are included in the calendar period, they are often considered “feast days,” which is why they are not counted among the 40 days of fasting or sacrifice. Throughout this season, believers are encouraged to reflect, repent, pray, and renew their dependence on God.

At its core, Lent is not about religious obligation; it’s about relationship. It’s a time to realign our lives with Christ and remember His sacrifice, His love, and His victory over sin and death.

What Is the Purpose of Lent?

The purpose of Lent is not self-denial for its own sake—it’s spiritual formation.

Lent helps us:

  • Become more aware of our need for God
  • Turn away from distractions that pull our hearts from Him
  • Practice repentance and humility
  • Grow in prayer, Scripture, and obedience
  • Prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus with renewed faith and gratitude

Lent reminds us that transformation often happens when we slow down, listen, and make room for the Holy Spirit to work in us.

 

Three Ways to Participate in Lent This Season

Whether this is your first time observing Lent or a rhythm you return to each year, here are three meaningful ways to engage the season intentionally.

1. Commit to Daily Prayer and Scripture Reading

Lent is the perfect time to establish or deepen a daily rhythm of time with God. Even a few focused minutes each day can shape your heart and strengthen your faith.

Set aside intentional time for prayer and Scripture reading, asking the Lord to speak and guide you through His Word.

To help you stay consistent, we’ve created a FREE Lent Bible Reading Plan and Devotional, designed to walk with you through the entire season of Lent.

👉 Download it for free at SeekFirstResources.com and invite God to meet you daily through His Word.

2. Ask the Lord What to Fast

Fasting during Lent isn’t about earning God’s favor—it’s about creating space to seek Him more fully.

Instead of choosing a fast out of habit or tradition, ask the Lord:

“What do You want me to lay down this season so I can rely more fully on You and the Holy Spirit?”

It may be food, social media, entertainment, shopping, or another distraction that fills your time and attention. Whatever it is, allow that space to become an opportunity for prayer, reflection, and dependence on God.

Fasting helps us remember that our true nourishment comes from Jesus.

3. Serve Others and Practice Generosity

Lent is not only about personal reflection; it’s also about outward love.

Jesus calls us to love our neighbors and serve others, and Lent is a powerful time to put that into practice. Consider:

  • Who can I serve in my neighborhood?
  • How can I help someone in my church community?
  • Is there a need I can meet through generosity, encouragement, or practical care?

Serving others helps us live out the humility and love of Christ in tangible ways.

A Season to Seek First

Lent is a gift: a season to pause, reflect, and seek first the Kingdom of God. As you commit to prayer, fasting, and service, trust that the Lord will meet you, shape you, and draw you closer to His heart.

If you’re looking for a simple, meaningful way to begin, start with our FREE Lent Bible Reading Plan and Devotional at SeekFirstResources.com, and invite God to lead you through this sacred season.

May this Lent be a time of renewal, growth, and deeper intimacy with Christ.

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