As we take the first steps of Lent, we look forward to how God may transform us. Today we consider the Bible's concept of self-denial.
"But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you."
Matthew 6:18
Most people enter Lent thinking about what they'll give up. Jesus enters Lent thinking about who He will give Himself to. That's the difference between cultural self-denial and biblical self-denial.
When Jesus spent forty days in the wilderness, He wasn't proving He could survive without chocolate, soda, or comfort foods. The Spirit led Him into a place where food and water were absent to strengthen Jesus for His mission. Satan's temptations weren't about cravings—they were about calling. The enemy tried to pull Jesus away from God's will, not away from snacks.
That's the heart of Lent. If you choose to deny yourself something, ask how that denial helps you love God and serve others. If you give up sweets, redirect that money to someone in need. When you skip a meal, use that time to pray for a specific person God has placed on your heart. If you fast from lunch on Fridays, spend that hour serving at a soup kitchen or encouraging someone who is struggling.
Lent is not about proving your discipline. It's about positioning your life so God can use you. When you deny yourself for the sake of others, you taste the freedom Jesus lived every day. And the Father who sees in secret forms your heart in ways no public act of devotion ever could.
Reflection Questions:
- Where is God inviting you to deny yourself so someone else can flourish?
- How might your Lenten practice shift if the goal were love rather than self-control?
- What kinds of acts do you believe God delights to reward in eternity?
Prayer:
Father, teach me the way of Jesus. Free me from self-denial that draws attention to myself, and lead me into self-denial that blesses others. Shape my heart so that every sacrifice draws me deeper into Your will and deeper into love.
Daily Assignment:
Write your plan for Lent this year. Focus on one way you will deny yourself so someone else can experience God's love through you. Keep your plan between you and God.
Lent isn't about what you give up—it's about who you give yourself to.
Continue Your Journey
This devotional is part of the 40-day book Beyond Giving Up: A Lenten Journey into Obedient Faith by Toby Lofton.
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