Lenten Learnings

We are in the season of Lent.  Often, Christians give something up during the season of Lent to enable them to better grasp how Christ suffered when He died.  For Lent this year, I gave up electronic games. I have a series of games that I like to pass the time playing.  Honestly, I pass too much time, so I felt challenged to set aside my “little” distraction so that I would focus more on the intent of the season.

Since Lent began, I have not played electronic games except on Sunday, which is a day of celebration.  I have spent time in God’s Word, learned more about Him, and how He longs to have a deeper relationship with me. I have enjoyed the time I have spent, studying in my front room, first thing in the morning. God has challenged me, revealed truth to me, and blessed the moments we have shared together.

I have also spent more time shopping online.  


This is not good news.  During some of the time when I would previously play a game to relax or take a breather from my day, I have stuck with my commitment to not engage in such activities, and have, instead, scrolled through the choices of my favorite stores.  I am now the proud owner of 3 new pairs of shoes, 1 new dress, 1 new jean skirt, and 1 new shapewear to help me look better in aforementioned clothing choices. I assure you, none of my choices have extended my credit beyond what it should be; I haven’t spent money I don’t have.  It has made me wonder about myself.

Why do I need distraction?  Am I discontent?  Am I bored with my life?  Do I need a new challenge? Am I not doing something I should be doing? Questions have come to the surface as I have journeyed this year to Easter.  God and I are still discussing what all this means, and that’s a good thing.  The purpose of giving something up during Lent is to draw one into the presence of God, to teach one to see what Christ truly gave when He sacrificed His life.  I am celebrating God’s presence.  I am experiencing Christ in a fresh way, and my relationship with Him is growing deeper.  I miss my electronic games and I’m trying to not even peruse Spring Fashions online. God is teaching me more of how much He really loves me, and I’m living the Princess Life, daughter of the King of Kings, with greater joy, understanding and hope as I live in the season of Lent.

I’m ready for Easter, to the Praise of His Glory.