After His baptism and before the start of His ministry on earth, the incarnate Son of God walked into the wilderness, no food or drink in hand. He fasted forty days and forty nights, Scripture tells us, and then “the tempter approached him” (Matthew 4:3). Hungry and thirsty and holding no tangible thing of value, Jesus was tempted to take hold of power, to test the Father’s love for Him, to make for Himself a feast of bread to satiate His languishing body. When His human weakness was met with temptation, how did He respond? Using the words of Scripture, He turned to the Father.
Instead of reaching out for what the world would say He needed, Jesus clung to what He couldn’t live without: “He answered, ‘It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’” (Matthew 4:4). Rather than yielding to the devil’s enticements, Jesus yielded Himself to the Father and glorified Him: “Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him” (v.10).
Our culture views empty-handedness as the lowliest of conditions. We are trained to find our worth in usefulness and status, and to seek joy in our possessions. On the off chance we look down to find our hands empty, we quickly scoop up something to hold on to—some bit of work or wealth, some duty or distraction to busy our bodies and entertain our minds. But this hands-full gospel is not the message of Jesus.
Lent is a season where we once again remember that our hope and strength are found in nothing but the cross of Christ. By engaging in daily Scripture reading, prayer, confession, and repentance in these weeks leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, we retrain our hearts to embrace the salvation we cannot earn. We came empty-handed when we first gave our lives to Him, and we have nothing of our own as we return to Him now—only what He has freely and graciously given us.
This forty-day walk into the wilderness will bring us face to face with the depth of our lack, our human frailty, and our sin. But it will bring us to the cross, where our High Priest, who modeled perfect dependence on the Father, will show us the cost of our forgiveness in the marks on His body, even as He invites us to receive mercy.
Lent is an invitation to put down everything we have picked up in order to take hold of the only One who can truly satisfy our heart’s deepest longings. It is a call to turn back, and experience a season of refreshing for our souls (Acts 3:19). Come with open hands, and freely receive (Isaiah 55).
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367 thoughts on "A Lenten Introduction"
A season of refreshment for the soul…❤️
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I love the image of putting down what we’ve picked up along the way in order to come with open hands.
Surrender is the season He has called me to, to draw closer to him, to shift priorities- to become more His daughter- confident . What a timely study!
“Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.” (Heb 4:16) Amen! Boldly seeking mercy and grace in Christ
Ready to repent, refresh, and rejoice in the name of our Lord!
Reading about the temptations Jesus faced made me see how I face these same temptations daily. I am tempted to put worldly needs above spiritual needs, to question God’s love and power, and to give up on serving him and serve myself instead. Thank you Jesus for overcoming these temptations for me.
Thank you, Jesus!
Starting this journey today and I’m looking forward to how much closer it will bring me to knowing Jesus. I can’t wait to start cleansing things from my body and life that I fail to realize on a daily basis I truly do not need.
I am embracing this transformation of sanctification during this lent season.
I’m anxious to see what god is doing in the next season of my life! I’m starting with lent so I can draw nearer to him an let go of the very things that’s blocking what he has for me. Fear anxiety low self esteem I’m ready in Jesus name✨
Yes! I love this so much; an invitation to repent, be refreshed and to rejoice in our glorious Lord, to draw near to Him, give Him our thoughts, yield to Him alone.
I love that we see Jesus here as- a light dawning for those living int he shadow of death (that’s us!), the One who brings the kingdom of heaven near, our great High Priest, sympathetic, faultless, the bringer of refreshment for our souls, provider of all that is good, Holy, the One whose thoughts and ways are higher than mine.
So good!!!
Couldn’t agree more! Been feeling the same way. Excited to see what Jesus has in store for us!
It’s been a long time since I truly observed the season of Lent with a daily focus of reading the Bible and a repentant heart in these 40 days leading up to Easter. I’m looking forward to this season and growing closer to Jesus. ❤️❤️
“This hands-ful gospel is not the message of Jesus”…that entire paragraph…. wow. I can’t wait for all that God speaks through his word in this study
I know how you feel. I’ve been totally disconnected. It’s interesting that while re-organizing my bookcase this weekend, I was going through my study guides for She Reads Truth. I was getting ready to toss the 2020 Lenten study when I suddenly realized that I never even started it. I thought, oh boy, not only have I put this on the shelf I’ve also put the Lord on the shelf too. All that being said, it stirred my soul to get back to it! Make the Lord first in my life! So, I’ve started this Study and also the 2021 Lenten sturdy!
Just starting this Lent journey today! Excited to reconnect with scripture, as I feel totally disconnected lately. I’m hoping Lent will help me to get back on track and refocus on what really matters!
Hi I am starting now and I am super excited nice to meet everyone
Starting after Easter, but I feel it’s the perfect time.
I’ve gone through several of the She Reads Truth studded, but this is the first time I’ve posted anything. But I just want to put into words how much I hope this study will encourage me, but also challenge me.
As I read this it brings tears to my eyes to know how much Jesus truly loves us.
As I walk through this time of lack & isolation, I just want to be still & know The Lord better.
Just joined! I feel like my relationship with God has decreased over the years, I’m ready to restart new and strengthen that again.
Just joined. Love this so much knowing that I am not alone in this journey for such a time as this. Ready to embrace Lent this year and very eager to be in HIS Presence at every moment of my life. ❤
Wow!! I’m so glad I’m not the only one just starting this journey! It’s been a while but I’m grateful to be empty handed and available to be still with His word!
Just joined. So ready to embrace Lent this year. Jesus’ 40 days of fasting is incredible and to be admired forever.
Just started this study! I’m really excited to get back into my Bible!
Joining today after not picking up this app for too long. I look forward to a refreshing of my spirit with so much going on in the world. Truly our hope and strength is found in Christ.
I am joining this today. All the while working and finishing up my degree from home. I needed this message today, although Jesus was tempted he let the devil know “it is written”. That part stood out to me as a reminder that even though we often get distracted with what’s going on in the world we need to be anchored in his word to resist temptation.
Well said!!! And so true!!
Love this. So excited to start. I’ve been hearing pray, reflect, grow in this time especially with everything going on in our world right now and this is exactly how I want to do it. In the word of Jesus❤
Also very late to this but looking forward to spending plenty of time catching up. In this season I am needing to soak in his word x
I’m with ya, just joining in ❤️
Better late than never
In this time of solitude from the world I want to turn my face to only Him. I want to lay everything else down and truly focus on HIM.
As I read,it reminded me that we are in the same situation. Looking to fulfill what only God can. I ask that God works in our hearts to see what really matter, what is invisible and everlasting is what matters in the end. I pray God uses this quarentine time to speak truth to our heart.
I just joined today…but looking forward to spending extra time in the Word and being filled! Lately I’ve been YouTube binging instead of spending quality time with God. I felt so stuck and was praying for God to show me what to do. Today I heard about this app and the Lent series. This is exactly what I needed! Thank you Lord! My prayer for lent is to be satisfied by Christ and not people, to depend on him for ALL my needs-physically, emotionally and spiritually.
I think these reading are just what we need in this time of “empty handedness” that the WORLD is experiencing!! how can we look to Jesus when everything seems “gone”?
Who knew that during Lent this year a pandemic would sweep the earth? Our God knew and He is still offering us to turn from this world to Himself.
Keen to start this (even though it is a little late)
This is exactly what my heart needed to hear today. I have been wrapped up in fear and anxiety over the state of the world this week, and then God dropped this study in my lap. I am so excited about working through it!
Same thing here ❤️
So thankful to be doing this!
Incline your ear and come to me; hear, that your soul may live. Thanking God for the opportunity to draw close to him and hear from him in this Lenten time that feels so extra Lent-like! Also late to this study, glad to not be the only one.
Enjoyed this read; I as well am behind but I look forward to catching up. My spirit is full and my mind is at ease.
I’m quite late to this too, but wanting to do something for lent! Jeremiah has been on my mind a lot lately considering he write the book of Lamentations in very trying times! Wanting to see The glory of God through Jesus during these uncertain times- he alone is our anchor. “This I call I mind and therefore I have hope- the steadfast love of the LORD never ceases.”
This couldn’t be more timely for what we, not just as the church but the world as a whole, needs during these uncertain and trying times! Excited to press into this study!
Late to the game, but I want to catch up.
Thanks for this journey
Just discovered this and am looking forward to this study!
Thanks for this day’s message
Such a sweet reminder in these times that Jesus is with us and has overcome the temptations we will face.
Excited to start this journey!
So so excited to start this walk to Easter of reflection and just thankfulness for all God has done for us.
A little late joining but very excited. With the extra days home from teaching, I look forward in catching up.
I’m a teacher just starting too!! So excited.
I’m excited to start this journey. I am already on my 21st day of fasting, but I felt that I need something else, and this plan came in the perfect time. I’m super excited about what God will do in my life throughout the next days.
Although I have started this journey late, I am excited to begin. ❤
Excited to begin this journey! Late to join but excited nonetheless!
I have been feeling spiritually bankrupt these past few years and I hadn’t realized how far I’d fallen until recently. I cannot wait to dive into this and get back to the One who never let me go.
I’m a bit behind but excited for this journey!
Just now getting to read the actual devo sections of this study. I’m currently just doing a chapter a day, because I want to actually dive in and understand the chapters, rather than just read them to be reading them.
A bit behind, but that’s ok!
I’m joining up ever so late. Please pray with me that I can catch up in just a couple days. Thank you.
Kelly, I’m starting late as well so you’re not alone! I’m excited to dive into this study and get caught up. ❤️
I need this.
I’m doing the same thing, Crystal! I find either my phone or food occupies my hands when I could be filling my heart with the Lord. I’m really trying to shift this focus during Lent.
I am giving up Social Media and trying to be intentional when I pick up my phone. In gaining mindfulness and time I will be focusing on prayer and making healthy decisions for my heart and mind.
I’m so excited to begin this study! I’ve just recently become at stay at home mom and have really been struggling with letting a career and it’s financial safety net go. The Lord has proven many times that I am right where I need to be and that HE is the only provider we need. Matthew 4:4 spoke to me so loudly! ❤️
Yes! Feast on his word. But in addition to extra time for scripture and prayer that will allow us to draw close to God, we should also concentrate on our small acts of kindness i.e. how we can be more Christ like. I teach a 4th grade Sunday School class and yesterday we talked about ways we can show God’s love everyday. It may be writing a letter or calling a grandparent or one of the shut-ins from church, saying or smiling at the quiet kid at school, helping someone anonymously – in their case it may be helping a sibling pick up toys without being asked. In our case, maybe we buy the coffee for the person behind us in the drive thru or help an older person we see struggling to carry groceries. Look for ways to show God’s love everyday. Not only will this fill your own “tank” with joy but you change the world for the better one small acts at a time.
I’m confused on how the physical copy of the study/ digital app study copy / online website version differs. Just price? If I buy the digital version via the app, is that going to give me more than the “preview” the app shows you daily?
Truth bomb: Our culture views empty-handedness as the lowliest of conditions.” Conviction.
En este tiempo con Dios espero conocer más de él!!! De su palabra, trabajar en mi fe hacia Dios.
Que Dios te bendiga!
Que Dios te bendiga! Dios nos tiene en sus manos y estamos unidos por El. Animo! ♥️
My prayer for lent is that I will stop looking to what the world says I need, and look to the Father who has everything and exactly what I need. I find hope in the fact that when I feel physically or emotionally empty handed, that my spirit is always full.
God bless you, jenn!
Well said, thank you.
Same Jenn ❤️
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Jenn, you said it so perfectly! With all that is going on economically due to the pandemic, I’m struggling with giving over to God control over my finances and desires for unnecessary things and possessions. I just prayed this morning for God to help me feel fulfilled in his Word and his love…and then I found this app and devotional. He is an on time God!
I love this day. It is definitely causing a heart shift for me to think of all the stuff I pick up on a day to day basis. Even the stuff I’m trying to please God with. He does need that. He wants me to come to him every day with a heart open.
Anyone giving up anything for Lent?
Social media- face book and insta… and meat on Fridays… it really does make me stop and realize how often I “pick something up” whether it’s my phone or some kind of food, to fill that emptiness and loneliness that is the condition of the human heart- the human heart without God that is!
Very similarly – social media & food on Wednesday’s…
May the Lord be our sustainer and May it be Him who we look to fill our every need and desire!!
Nighttime TV (starting at 5PM). It’ll be my 3rd year doing it. Instead of mindlessly binging on Netflix, I “find time” to read, pray, and catch up on things.
Fist time doing lent. I’m soo excited to experience joy and God in this season.
Wow the Acts passage really stuck out to me…
19Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, 20that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, 21whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago.
“Repent…that times of refreshing may come from presence of the Lord…”
I am so excited! This was so thoughtful, poignant and powerful!
What a beautiful explanation
What is the name of the playlist on Spotify? Trying to find it.
As I was reading through the temptation of Christ in Matt 4 it just leaped out of the pages to me this time that Satan was questioning the covenant God made with His people- His son. With the bread, He challenged Jesus’ belief that God would provide. With throwing himself over the cliff he was challenging God’s ability to protect Jesus and with offering Him dominion of the kingdoms through bowing to him Satan was challenging God’s loyalty to His son and each time Jesus responded from a place of knowing who he was and of a place of trust in God – his provision and timing – even His method. I think so many of us face these same challenges in different ways every day. I love how Hebrews 4 goes on to say that Jesus is our high priest who empathizes and understands and then in Isa. how God reiterates His covenant to His people. so good! I’m looking forward to this!
So true!! Love this
Thanks- really helpful and so true. I was struck by the need to come empty handed to God. All my days are filled with trying to be more productive’ and ‘effective’ – but with the One who really counts, we must be humble and empty. May God help us to come to Him as we should.
so good❣️
His love for us has always been display by his amazing sacrifice. Now we must show the Love of God to others, make a sacrifice this lent season.
Loved this! I’m so excited to start this journey here in She Reads Truth. Today I was sitting alone at the beach when a woman came up to me to tell me she had a strong urge to give me a message. The message was that something good was coming into my life soon and I needed to be open to it. So reading “come with open hands, and freely receive” at the end of this passage gave me chills.
Marveling over Hebrews 4 – verse 16 is very familiar, but how often I’ve misremembered the high priest Jesus who sympathizes with our weaknesses yet suffered without sin. What a triumph, what a hope!
I hope that next week She Reads Truth will post the next 6 days. My understanding is that the 40 days of Lent does not include Sundays. So, 4 days would be Wed, Thurs, Fri and Sat.
I’m curious about the timeline as well. Hopefully we get a response letting us know how to follow.
I am excited to start this journey! I just finished this introduction and it gave me great clarity! Not sure how the pace works though. We’re technically on Day 2 of Lent right? Why are there only 4 days posted on the reading plan?
Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lenten season but our SRT reading plan started preparing our hearts posture for lent two days ahead. That’s why we have four days of reading at the moment.
I would love to know why Jesus did this? Why did He go into the wilderness for 40 days?
My impression is that the goal was to show Jesus as human and to prepare Him for his mission. Fasting is a way to prepare oneself for something important. And from Scripture, “Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,”
Luke 4:1 NIV
Marks account says the Spirit sent him out. He was led there so this is what God planned for him. I hope this helps.
“come with open hands and freely receive…” ❤️
To reiterate what all these women are saying, this is a wonderfully easy to understand way to look at Lent. I have been having conversations with friends and coworkers about how they are going to “celebrate” the Lenten season and a lot are focusing on what they are giving up, a lot of it food wise, but without the understanding that this is to bring them closer to God and not just to “suffer” as you fast. But an option could also be to feast on something that brings you closer to God such as scripture and prayer.
I have never considered Lent to be a practice of rearranging your time for God. Refreshing.
I have never understood lent from a “fundamental “ baptist perspective. So thankful God is freeing me from that. This explanation already spoke to my heart.
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I love this explanation, this does a great job of describing what is at the core of lent: reliance on God! He is enough
This brings a refreshing perspective into what lent is truly about.
Thankful for She Reads Truth & for the growth to come as we begin the Lenten season.
So excited to start this – even if I’m a few days behind!
I’m also a few days behind but excited to get started and thankful I got to take my young kids to church today to experience their first Ash Wednesday service. Blessings to each of you this night.
Lord please refresh my soul. I am dry and desperate for you.
In a season of struggle and this reminder that my pain and struggle pale in comparison to what he did for me on the cross is exactly what I needed this week.
So excited to be revived in this season! Can’t wait to see how the Lord uses this time to draw us near.
What an awesome introduction. It immediately speaks to my spirit. I’m very excited to see what God has for me as I walk this 40 days with him.
To remember when we first came to God empty handed and we are to return to him empty handed, let go the trying to pick things up to find our value. Amen.
Great scriptures and intro. Very excited to dive in!
Lent = a time of refreshing. Amen.
I’m preparing to teach about the sword of the spirit to elementary students today using the story from Matthew 4. So awesome to open this and find this story pointed out for me also. ❤️
This is so true Jessica. He knows our pain and is there for us. I agree great He is behind us every step of the way!
I am so thankful for this. I was googling what lent meant, and this one was the most clear, to the point, and spirit lead description that I could grasp and truly understand!
This is the second day in a row that I have listened to or read something discussing Matthew 4:4. It’s really resonating with me and I feel called to really dig into His Word throughout the rest of this study.
Love this explanation of lent!
Excited to truly dig deep in this season! I’ve always participated in Lent, but have never taken much thought to it until now!
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I’m so excited to dig into the word this season.
This is one of the most clear and refreshing explanations of the purpose of Lent that I have heard. Thank you!
I totally agree! I loved this introduction
I could not have said it better myself! I agree.
I could not have said it better myself! I agree!
Yes I thought so too!
I agree too!
So true!
A verse I thought of while I was reading was Isaiah 30:15 “in repentance and rest is your salvation; in quietness and trust is your strength” (NIV) and I think that so beautifully sums up the idea of Lent that Amanda presented!
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First time participating in the Lent season despite being a Christian for 8 years. I’m thankful for this community and also the very beautifully crafted study book I purchased. It is the best thing ever, and it makes me excited to read the bible Everyday. May I remember that Christ is the centre of my life; the cornerstone and the stable foundation.
First time truly being in this season despite being a Christian for 8 years. Thankful for a community and the very beautiful study book I purchased to accompany me through this Lent season. May we all continue to spur one another on in love and good deeds
So good!
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Remembering that all i have and will ever need is jesus. Not what he can do for me but what i can do for him
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I love the part where it talks about empty hands as a state of lowliness
… In today’s culture. But in our faith it is a sign of surrender to a greater strength. Something bigger than self that can accomplish more than I ever could. I want to go throughout my day continually remembering to open my hands up and give things to God that I have such a tight grip on. Holding onto things is a sign that I don’t trust jesus like I thought I did.
Excited to dig into this season lent and start really holding onto Christ.
I was half way through an old Acts study guide but am glad I decided to put that aside to start this lent plan, this is the first time I’ve done one “live” as it were with She reads truth
Same! ❤️
Me too:)
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We discussed these passages today in our young adults small group and holy smokes I am blown away at how emotional this time of year is. Because the grace I have been freely given day after day is magnified through these scripture passages.
Jesus reached out to God in His weakness because He couldn’t live without Him. Why do I think I can? Lent is my favorite season of the church calendar because it challenges and calls to light the darkness in me and how Jesus meets me there. The living water of Jesus is so sweet!
What a blessing to be able to have a study like this. It reminds me that my God is so good and full of mercy and grace. So looking forward to committing these 40 days with intention and repentance. My God is…He is enough…
I’m so glad a friend from my planner community shared this group. I wasn’t aware She Reads Truth had an app, much less studies! This really helped me. And, I’m so excited to dig deep into this study and learn more what Lent is all about. ❤️
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I’m so thankful a friend pointed me to this reading. I’m excited to see all God reveals you me throughout this time. And I’m eager to feel my relationship and understand of Him deepen.
This is so beautifully written!
I am always looking for way to build my relationship with God! So excited for this study
I’m excited and anxious to see what God will reveal to me in this season of my life. If felt lost, like every thing/every direction I took there is a bigger wall to climb. I pray that God not only open my mind and heart in this lent season/study but he also encourages all the women seeking his love and want to grow closer to him. Anyone else feel like this is just what you needed!? Not sure how to really use the study books but hey there’s a first for everything am I right!
I love this Lenten season for it helps me to focus in in the things that really matter.
Things above!
I so needed this reminder today. My hope and worth is not found in my work or possessions. Only in Jesus. Looking forward to diving deeper into his truth through this study.
As I think back on when I was a child and first came to know God; my hands were empty, and again, when I was confirmed; my hands were empty. Looking back also at all the times I’ve prayed with my grandchildren (empty-handed) and throughout adulthood (mostly empty handed or holding closely, some scripture or a cross of olive wood) this reading serves to sweeten the gentle moments of God’s simplicity and enduring love for us. LORD, in this season of remembrance, crucifixion, and resurrection, my heart remains filled with your love and a gratefulness that is indescribable.
This is my first year observing lent, but I’m excited to use it as an opportunity to grow closer with God! Leading up to this lent season I’ve felt a real ongoing conviction to give up social media and replace it with more prayer and time spent in scripture!
That’s a great idea! Social media has overtaken our lives in so many ways, and though it’s great to keep in touch with family far away, see friends’ cute babies, etc., it can also steal our time, cause anxiety and jealousness, and lead us further from him. I pray this time will lead you closer with God and have a greater understanding of what He can do in your life.
I’m doing the same, Linly! I gave up social media on Tuesday and I already feel so much better. Whenever I reach for my phone, the only thing I’ve been doing is reading scripture on here or checking my email. It’s so beautiful…this feeling of time and my heart opening up to let God’s love in even more.
Oh man did God hit my heart this morning. I have gotten so far away from Him. He has never been silent, not there, I was just too far away and too into the world that I couldn’t identify His voice. I pray God continues to reignite that fire in my heart for Him and I can’t wait for His voice to get louder and louder.
I’m praying i will better appreciate the cross and what Jesus did for me through this study, as well as better worship at Easter, which i believe is the most important holiday at all time, but really don’t enter into the truth of it well. Im praying it’ll bring revival and new growth and singing for ALL of us as these verses on day 1 imply.
This is my first time observing lent & I’m excited to see how my heart is affected. I feel like each year Easter kinda sneaks up on me without me being prepared in my heart & therefore not having the reverence and appreciation for why Easter is so great & why His sacrifice was necessary.
This plan is needed and this is what I need to renew and refresh my relationship with the King of my heart and soul. I’m not perfect and he doesn’t call me to be but I need to get back to the one who called me and loves me than I’ll ever comprehend. I’m excited for this Lent season and all that is to come!
I love this
Fully believe God has led me to this today. I’m struggling to let go of my will and letting Him be my deepest satisfaction and yearning to have a deeper relationship with Him and once and for to grasp the deep love He has for me, so that I can love myself through His eyes.
I’m struck by the verse in Acts where we are promised a season of refreshing. I’ve never caught that phrase before. In the past, my time in the Word has usually been a chore at best. I’m praying the Lord changes my heart and attitude to love Him and his Word and also to really show me where the refreshment can come from. I don’t want to be jaded and seeking more “stuff” anymore. I want to find that joy and love in God.
I am ready for what God may have for me as we start this study. Praying for all of us to deepen our knowledge and experience Our Father, Savior, and the Holy Spirit in wonderful new ways!
I’m excited to begin this lenton journey with a group of god-loving women. I too need to strengthen my relationship with Him and will be using this study as a guide to do so.
I’m not the best at sticking with plans. I want to be closer to the lord and what better way than this commitment. I am going to post every day to keep myself accountable. Reading this was a blow to my ego. I am that person. I have felt less than this year being a stay at home Mom. I clung to my job and my title and my office and that’s not what’s important.
On Sunday all of our worship songs were about experiencing God through our senses. Sight, smell, hearing ,touch and taste. So as I’m trying to focus on the Lord I ask myself how do you taste the Lord. And immediately I heard how can you expect to know when you’re contantly filling your mouth with food. It was hurtful but it was truth. This devotional is exactly what I need in the right timing.
Praying for the perseverance to dive into this study whole heartedly and commit to it!
Empty handed ness.
Amen, going into Lent with a repentant heart wanting more of my God and Savior Jesus.
It is my first time doing lent . My prayer this year and the next 40 days is get closer to God, pray and read his word more.
My word for the year is commit. I am committing myself to putting down the busyness and distractions during this Lenten season, so I can experience the fullness of God. I pray that I come out of this season knowing to my core that He is enough.
I pray that these next 40 days will be a period of spiritual growth and an increase in discipline. I pray that this study will not only bring me closer to God but that it will also strengthen my discipline. I’m exited to remove all of the worldly distractions and get back to what’s most important; his enduring love for me.
I’m very excited for this Lenten and Easter Season. Had many life changes since Thanksgiving, and really looking to The Lord for my guidance. Lent reminds me to trust him fully, physical things will
Never bring fullness and joy. Only The Lord can fill us with joy.
Idk if you have an iPhone but the podcast is found anywhere you listen to podcasts by searching She Reads Truth podcast. For apple podcasts here is the link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/she-reads-truth-podcast/id1480595648
I’ve been doing the Scripture reading here for awhile but I never post. I think it’s important for me to respond to the reading and devotional for the day, though, to put into words my response so that it gets solidified in my heart. Today I am thankful to see how Jesus responded to being tested so we have an example of how to depend on the Spirit and the Word in our tests.
“Lent is an invitation to put down everything we have picked up in order to take hold of the only One who can truly satisfy our heart’s deepest longings.”
Last year, a friend spoke over my life calling me to be like Mary, the sister of Martha. Since then, I’ve been on my journey of learning to focus only on that which is important: God, His Word, and His presence in my life.
Hence, the sentence above speaks to me so clearly. I so desire to know Him. And I’m excited to embark on this devotional, my first one ever for Lent, to know Him and be steadfast to Him as he steadfastly loves me.
I love the picture of how this season should be about letting go of all the things we pick up in our lives as distraction, to fill ourselves of worldly things etc. I’m praying that all of us would open our hearts and minds to everything he wants to give and speak to us and that would be enough for us.
In my community group we talk about all of the distractions in our lives that keep us from spending time in God’s word or praying and here lately I have felt like a dog when a squirrel runs by… distracted and unfocused. It is my prayer that I remain focused throughout this bible study and that I feel His presence in my life.
God showed showed me this plan right on time, the day that I’ve broken down countless times. I pray that he brings me closer to him in this season, I’ve strayed and only He can save me.
Tiffany, I’m right there with you. This also came at a perfect time when life seems pretty crippling and I can’t keep my head above the water. Praying for a nourishing Lent season for us both!
For Paris Hornbaker,
Giving something up is a way to remind ourselves to go to Jesus, but so is taking something on. Take on more prayer time or take on a random act of kindness for the next forty days. Looks like you have already taken on this study. Maybe this is just what you need and nothing more. Saying a prayer for you , Paris. By the way, I love your name!,
Sue Ellen
❤️this idea of adding something on.
Me too♥️
❤️this idea of adding something on!
I’ve found taking on something draws me closer to Jesus. I often feel like when I give up something the focus is on worldly things and not Jesus❤️
I pray that our hearts be open to where God is breaking into our lives this Lenten season
Never noticed Jesus’ first message was a call to repentance! How deeply moving that the One who cleanses us would simply ask us to confess our need for the salvation that is already given. What a costly gift!
I’m praying this lent season to strengthen my relationship with God. I’m craving a closer relationship to him and learning to pray for myself. So here I am starting day one with open hands and praying to fill my heart with his word.
God, I don’t want my hands to be full if my heart isn’t full with you.
So my and husband and I are doing this semi together. We have been married almost 4 years but I have a hard time letting him into my relationship with God so I am praying through this scripture and doing this together I can soften my heart to the oneness my marriage is craving. We are suppose to do it on our own and check in with each other to see our takeaways. I pray this starts a new level of intimacy we haven’t shared yet. I’m nervous but excited!
❤️❤️❤️
Am I ready for this journey? I don’t know but I am going to try, because I really want to be closer to God.
This is my first time, here in the Bible study. I am excited and grateful to be apart of the amazing group. I am looking forward to learning and growing in the Lord.
Looking forward to taking hold of Jesus in this season.
I’m ready to empty my hands of all the busyness of this life and experience God in a fresh new way. So excited for this study!
This will be my first time participating in lent. I have been trying to grow my relationship with the Lord since the beginning of the year. January 7, 2019 my husband and I lost our daughter, she was stillborn. I spent that year confused, hurting, and pushing everything and everyone away including the Lord. I cannot wait to experience this growth in my relationship with the Lord.
Fellow loss mama here. I lost my daughter June 2018 and that is exactly what drove me to find my faith again. Praying for you friend ❤️
I find it interesting that Jesus was tempted; right? We are tempted every day! And the lesson I find is that I need to be IN the WORD so when I AM tested, I will not fail. I am pressing through a difficult season and all I can remove s myself is to look to the hills from which comes my help.
This Lenten season is encouraging to me
The theme of the wilderness has been something God has been preparing me for. Just this weekend God had me enter the wilderness for a season due to circumstances in my life. But a few weeks back my pastor was going through Rev 12 and I caught on the wilderness part of the passage where the woman is sent to the wilderness and was there nourished. Though the wilderness was a hard time for the Israelites, they were able to see God’s presence daily and experience his miraculous care for them. And I was just going through Genesis and saw how God met Hagar in the wilderness and showed her love and care. So as I enter this season of lent in my life, and the wilderness God has placed me in, I have my eyes open for the wonderful things He is about to do.
As I sat with the Lord today, I finally admitted to Him how bored I have been in our relationship. That reading the Word doesn’t sound fun, and 95% of the time confuses me so I just quit. I know that He knew all of that already, but I’m grateful that my God allows honesty. That even in the prideful was of admitting to the Lord I’m bored He meets me with kindness. May the season of Lent mark a new intimacy with He and I. And may I see this through, not just start strong.
I pray God opens your heart to glean exactly what you need in this season so the relationship He wants with you gets deeper and better.
To be honest every year I try to give up something and turn my heart to Jesus and I fail everytime. This year my heart and mind are focused. I want to be near to the Father and know what He went through and hear His truth. I’m excited to partake in this season of lent.
My word for the year is “stronger,” and what better way to become stronger than getting rid of all distractions and diving deep into God’s Word. I look forward to spending these next forty days strengthen my relationship with God and learning how to fully put my trust in him and exercise some “crazy faith.”
SN: If you have not listened to the “Crazy Faith” sermon series from Transformation Church, led by Pastor Michael Todd, I encourage you to go listen. It is available on YouTube or through Apple Podcast.
This study could not have come at a better time in my life. I have been struggling with letting go of a deep-rooted sin. No matter how hard I try, I keep going back. I’m excited for a time to reflect on God’s grace and forgiveness. Please pray for me as I work during Lent to devote myself to the Lord and not the desires of my sinful heart!
Oof, girl, SAME. Praying for strength for the both of us.
For all of those wondering about how to watch the podcast of She Reads Truth devotionals here is the website — https://shereadstruth.com/podcast/. God bless
I’m very new to Christianity and She Reads Truth and I am wondering how do these studies work.
Hayley, each day there will be a new reading and a commentary to go along with it. Then you can respond to the commentary hear, if you would like, or simply read the other responses. I have found God speaks to me through the other women here more often than not.
I need this study deeply and am thankful even more for the cross and the rest and hope that comes from Jesus alone for my soul.
I’m in a season of chaos raising my precious children 3 under 4 and one with health issues. I am reminded today in this season when my body is tired and soul is weary that Jesus felt this too and yet He was without sin. May I look to His faithful example. God forgive me when I doubt and seek anything other than you to fill my heart and weakness.
My Thought are not you thoughts…My ways are not your ways…My thoughts are higher than your thoughts, My ways higher than your ways. This gives me Comfort and Peace because my thoughts and ways usually lead me to the wrong place! His ways and thoughts are reminiscent of Philippians call to think on heavenly things and not earthly things and to this on whatever is
During this Lent season I am praying God helps me stripe myself of everything that impedes my complete devotion to home. That He rids me of all the worldly things I have picked up along the way. I need Him and Him alone, and that is the only truth I need to carry. Amen. ♡
So good and so convicting. What do I pick up to fill my idle hands and time? My phone. This is something I literally hold on to when I feel bored or listless, when I absolutely should be grateful instead for a moment of solitude to spend with my Savior. God has placed this on my heart, and I now know exactly what to give up for Lent. These next 40 days, whenever I start to reach for my phone to distract myself or waste time, I will find almost all my apps uninstalled (-I will keep SRT, of course-) and then remember to spend that idle time in prayer, instead. If any of you ladies feel this conviction as well, and would like to join me, I would love to pray for you and you for me to help keep each other accountable. Thank you all for your insights and encouragement. I am looking forward to hearing what else God has in store for us all through this study :)
Yes, social media is being deleted off my phone. For Lent and maybe longer.
I did this as well. When I feel like I want to check social media, I open the Bible app instead.
Same, sister. Praying for you. Please pray for me.
Right there with you sister. We had an interesting discussion on this at my church last weekend. What really helped me to this decision was that through social media we are always having our eyes on other peoples lives. And when we’ve allowed someone else’s life to catch our attention, we’ve lost the chance to see our own destiny provided by God. Prayers for you.
I gave up Facebook for Lent in 2016, and it was so freeing. I have decided to do it again this year. Recently, I have noticed that during times when I should be working or spending time with my family, I am on my phone observing other people’s lives instead of being present in my own. I know this hinders my relationship with the God, as I feel immense guilt over this. I’m praying for you all to reach for the Lord instead of your phone this Lenten season ❤️
A lot of people believe they ought give up something for Lent but I am feel that it is a commitment to change, whether you give up something or start something. So for me, I am going to start something (it is been shown that it takes 4-6 weeks to change habits), I’m going to start getting back into the Word again. It starts here with this study. I love reading all of your comments and why I stopped I don’t know. I even write some of them down to go back and reread.
Love you all sisters of Christ.
♥️
This is good. I love that perspective and it’s simplicity! Too often I think we all have our moments of making our walk with Christ more complicated and more difficult than it’s really actually meant to be. ♥️
I’ve missed you Dorothy and wondered if you were okay. It is good to see you again. I love your thought about change. I agree with you. Making a change for the better and keeping it for Lent is a wonderful practice. Thank you.
I am too! Excited to be on the journey with you. ❤️
Isaiah 55 was particularly encouraging for me – to hear that the words and promises of God are like that of rain and snow, giving provision to us who believe.
Too often I look to the world to satisfy the hunger in my soul. I tell myself that if I had x,y, and z, I would be happy and content. If I was like that woman over there I would be able to fully enjoy my life. I waste the free time I have by scrolling social media sites and comparing my life with the lives I see presented online. I pray this season of lent I would only hunger and thirst for Jesus. I pray I would find that only in him can I find true satisfaction.
This is my first time observing Lent and participating in a She Reads Truth study with the workbook. I am eager to soak up His word and let it settle into my heart. I am all too often looking for fulfillment through worldly possessions. Love in Acts 3:20 “seasons of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.”
Good morning! I’m looking forward to the next 40 days. I’m praying that this will help reset my heart and I also pray that it changes every single person that reads through it as well. Love you all!
❤️
Many prayer requests mentioned on this site today. It’s a privilege and honor to go before the throne of our great God on behalf of so many. May you all see His heart and His hand in your situation. I’m traveling but when I get home later today, I will record your requests in my prayer book so that I faithfully pray for each one by name daily. Please keep all of us updated – for your testimony may very well be the one that keeps us going as well. Wish I could hug you all.
I look forward to walking this journey through the wilderness with you. It’s my first time observing lent fully and the timing could not be more perfectly placed. I will ask God to remind me to pray for your insight as well as we journey through the wilderness.
with love,
Ainsley
I look forward to spending this Lenten season with you
I told y’all several weeks ago that my daughter was applying for a teaching position at the elementary school that she attended. It has been her dream to teach at this school. She has an interview today at 4:30. I would appreciate any and all prayers that she would get this position.
Thank you, sisters
“We are trained to find our worth in usefulness and status, and to seek joy in our possessions.” This statement really resonated with me today. I am at the age (62) where I’m beginning to wonder what my place is within the body of Christ. My husband is a youth pastor and we’ve been at this church for 23 years. That’s a long time for a youth pastor. We have a new pastor and worship leader who are young enough to be our kids. They love having my husband on staff which we are incredibly thankful for. But…I am really struggling with feeling like I am enough. God has been very gracious to affirm me, but it is an on-going struggle. I pray that during this study I can become comfortable coming to God not just with empty hands but with open hands; trusting that He has more than enough for me left to do.
This is my first ever time participating in lent while actually having Jesus in my heart. My parents always made me do it when I was growing up, but I am excited to actually use this time to grow my relationship with God!
I hope you find this to be an amazing season of lent!
Isaiah: “ 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than yours thoughts.”
I cannot fathom God’s plans or His thoughts. I want to keep this in mind when I struggle with uncertainty about the future. He has plans for me and I willingly surrender. I will put down the things I believed have value – the worldly things, my plans for my future – and open my hands to receive His gifts, open to His plan. I am humbled. Jesus went to the desert without provision, fully knowing he was in His father’s hands. And when he was tempted, he remained strong, things of the world not needed, reliant on the Word of God . All I truly need is found with God and His provision. I look forward to this journey, my first with SRT.
Hi, glad to be here! Am I correct in seeing that I am not the only one on Day One
I am very excited to be on this journey with this community. My husband I recently found our way back to Jesus and it’s been a long journey. In the past I would give up something during Lent just to go through the motions. I never took the time to understand why I was doing these things. It’s not about giving something up just to get it back on Easter. It’s not about the object at all…it’s about turning my focus. Emptying my hands and turning toward Jesus to be fulfilled.
Thank you. I don’t usually observe lent but was led by the Spirit to do it this year, just yesterday. This reading was encouraging.
Phew, that paragraph about empty-handedness was more than I was ready for this morning. How convicting! I am soooo excited for this study.
Sameeee sis
Me too!!
Grateful for the verses from Hebrews 4 today. Had a really terrible weekend (my dog died) and it is a comfort to know that my Savior is no stranger to grief and I can boldly ask him for comfort.
Praying for you Abigail as you are mourning the loss of your precious dog. Blessings through this period of grief for you.
Melanie Rastrelli
Yes! Praying you feel His true comfort. Our dog died last Thursday and I miss her terribly.
This season is not about the things we can take away from our lives but about the things we can add to our lives that bring glory to God. Being in close proximity to the Father in this season is the greatest thing we could add to our lives. A sweet time to feel refreshed by breathing in his presence.
Amen.. Father in heaven I desire to know You and live for You, IN Jesus name Amen
Wow, I am the queen of needing the worlds approval to find my self worth. I needed oohs and awes from people around me. I am filled with joy to lay this rubbish down. In Philippians, Paul found all we think we have to brag about ourselves is rubbish and there is an unsurpassed greatness, knowing Christ and the power of his resurrection!
So looking forward to this season of Lent. There are things I have gathered that distract me from God and His Word. I’m challenged to examine my life and get rid of anything that doesn’t help me draw closer to Him.
I’m so excited to be doing this study with the community, and really hoping to have more intentionally focused prayer time in my daily life. I’d appreciate prayers as I’m getting ready to be married in June and I’ve been feeling very overwhelmed lately with things. I feel like this study is coming at the perfect time to help me refocus on Christ and what He’s done for me.
I have never truly observed the lent season. I very much needed the worlds approval to find my self worth. I’m excited to lay this down at the feet of Jesus. I am accepting this invitation to Lent. Empty-handed I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also taken hold of me. The unsurpassed greatness of knowing Christ and Him crucified.
Mari V I am and will be praying for Nathan and his family. Cassie I also will be praying for Ethan. Lord be with these children of your meet them where they are. You know exactly what they need Lord Jesus bring your healing touch, your strength, your provision. In your Holy Name Jesus I pray.
As I think about Jesus being tempted in the wilderness, I realize how frequently I fail to deny myself and seek the comforts of this world instead. My work is seasonal. Here in the off-season when I have a lot of down time, I see how often I try to fill myself up with work, busyness, mindless entertainment, and material things. Praying for grace to turn back to God and live by His Word alone. Excited to begin this Lenten journey with you all!
I am excited about this study. First one with SRT. My friends and I bought the book and were wondering where the plan is. Here it’s is but why do we have to also buy the plan is we bought the book? Is this how all SRT plans are? I’m confused and just needing answers. Please help.
Great question! There are various ways to follow the studies. Purchasing the book gives you a hard copy and additional extras in the book to help understand the content. For the devotional portion, you will need to either use the app (which does have a fee) or go to their study section online, the devotionals are always posted on there and are free to use. I believe you can also get a daily email with the devotional for free. To further answer your question, the app has the verses and devotional but, again, for a fee. If you go online to follow the plan it’s free, you look the verses up yourself but the devotional is available online. I hope this helps!
Thank you. This did help. Just wish we knew that the plan will be on here for cheaper than the book before we bought the books. Like I said, this is our first study with SRT and didn’t know what we were doing all too well. We love reading scripture but also like to have some guidance and wisdom from others who have read it first to go along with the scripture to understand it better.
One of my favorite verse of scripture is Hebrews 4:16, which I memorized long ago. Whenever I read it I am humbled by the fact that God Almighty, Creator of heaven & earth – invites me to step into the Holy of Hollies, into His very throne room. Not only does He invite me in, He encourages me to come boldly – not afraid to ask, not ashamed, but as I am – to seek cleansing, forgiveness – God’s mercy and grace which is freely offered. My prayer for the next 40 days will be that I will daily be reminded of the love of Christ which led Him to the cross to die for my sin so that I could indeed have the privilege of coming boldly before the throne…Cassie, praying for Ethan – nothing is to big or to small or insignificant to God. Seeing our children struggle, whether with big things or small tear at our hearts – and that matters to God. Please know you are loved and you and Ethan are prayed for.♥
I am looking forward to this 40 day Lent season with all you my beautiful sisters. I’m thinking it’s my third year. I just as Amanda ends today’s devotion. Lent is an Invitation to put down everything I picked up and get a hold of the ONLY ONE Who can truly satisfy my heart’s deepest longings.
PLEASE my dear sisters! I put out a prayer request yesterday. Just in case some of you do not see it I’m going to repeat it. Saturday morning my son texted me and desperately asking for prayer of everyone. His friend and student at the University was severely injured when he was hit by a truck on Friday night. He is in critical condition and in a coma. Since then he’s had a few surgeries with some progress. His name is Nathan Lewis. Goes by Nate. You can find his story on CaringBridge. Thank you as I know you will pray.
Praying for Nate and his complete healing. God works miracle healing every second. God bless.
Melanie Rastrelli
Thankful for SRT and this season of Lent. I’ll spend the next few days searching my heart for what all to give up in order to draw closer to Jesus. There is a big area of sin in my life that I know I need help and prayer with, but there are also the day-to-day worldly distractions that keep us from our higher purpose on this earth. I’m praying for others and for breakthrough in my own life in many ways! We’re not perfect, but how great it is it to be reminded to always strive to be spotless before Our Lord.
So looking forward to this study. Feel like I have been wandering in the wilderness for years while maintaining the outward appearance of “everything’s fine”. Oh Jesus renew me I pray. Heart soul mind spirit.
I am so looking forward to this study of Lent as we move towards Easter and the empty tomb!
Ready to let go and let God!
I have been in such a dry season with my faith recently. I guess a lot of it has to do with my disillusionment with the American evangelical church. I love Jesus but I am so struggling to love his bride. I’m praying for a breakthrough during this lent season.
I pray that God will open your eyes, as he has with mine to see the individuals in the church where they are at and to love them as He loves you.
I get it. I’ve been there, in love with Jesus and then hit like a semi truck to the grossness that happens in ‘church’. Comparing people to the word, the systems they create with the word and seeing it come up short. It becomes a vicious nasty cycle.
There is comfort in knowing that Jesus was rejected by people who were supposed to know Him, that He was told He was speaking blasphemy, and that He wasn’t living up to the standard of the law. Yet, He died for those people too. He perished not just for the overt and blatant sins, but also for pride, selfishness, self righteousness, idolatry, and pew sitting waywardness.
For me, the closer I look at how Jesus walked on this earth, reading the gospels and seeing how and who He interacted with, and putting myself in the position of all those people, including the Pharisees and seeing Jesus that way, allowing myself to be honest with God and for Him to show me myself, I have been able to see how Jesus sees me. That He doesn’t just see me, He sees everyone the same way. With an outpouring of compassion and love.
When I began admitting I had been hurt to Jesus by people in His church, I was met with compassion and a comparing of scars. He bears more than I could ever take, and he has taken mine and He will take yours, but you have to let Him heal you.
May you fully grasp the knowledge and depth and width of the love that is in Christ Jesus.
It has been a long time since I have observed a season of lent. When I was a kid we would always give something up during lent to try and help bring us closer to God and I think this is the perfect thing for me to do right now. My life recently has been so focused and things other then God and I am really trying to put God as the center of my life, making him my number one, and taking myself off the throne of my heart and putting Him in his rightful place there!
I’ve never really followed the church calendar beyond Christmas and Easter, which are also huge in the culture. I’m ready (excited isn’t quite the right word) … I’m anticipating this journey of repentance and a constant turning back to God as we approach the Passion and resurrection.
Good morning sisters. I pray in these next 40 days of reflection will remind me of the true love of Jesus. I hope that it can bring me closer to being obedient to his words and repenting my sins to be a better person that will be pleasing to God. Isaiah 55:12-13. The myrtle tree, signify life and fertility, anew. It contains a fragrant oil. I am grateful to SRT.
Where do I find the podcast?
I use Apple and just typed in SheReadsTruth in the podcast app.
So beautiful, that passage in Isaiah. And the bit about approaching the throne of grace with boldness in Hebrews; The concept of shameless prayer seems to be following me around lately, and Lent seems to be the perfect season to practice that— to “repent and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped out, and that seasons of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send Jesus, who has been appointedaf for you as the Messiah.” (Acts 3)
Come Jesus bring seasons of refreshing by your presence in my life. Let me sit with you now, and remind my heart of your truths throughout the busyness of the day.
Praying for Ethan and you, Cassie.
“We are trained to find our worth in usefulness and status”…a message that pierces my heart this morning. I have been so caught up in these feelings that I have been slowly becoming less reliant upon Jesus.
Praying for you Liz.
Liz, I prayed for you and your marriage this morning. I would also highly recommend the book, The Power of a Praying Wife, by Stormie O’Martin. She leads you through many areas of prayer for yourself & your husband, which I’ve found quite effective-especially in changing my own heart!
Also recommend!!!
I would love prayer this morning. I am using this time of Lent to look at sin in my own life. Some of it so much more glaring than others. This has been a very hard season in my marriage. But the sin in my life and my husband’s that Satan wanted to use to destroy, God has turned and used for restoration. Please pray for continued healing.
Hello Liz. I pray God’s will for your life and marriage and for continued healing. He is more than capable of seeing you through this season!
Prayers for continued healing for you, your husband and your marriage!
Praying!
This was so good and encouraging! So grateful to begin this study with you all at this special time of year.
Could you all please pray for my 4 year old Ethan? He has always struggled with a very sensitive gag reflex. When he gets a cold he makes himself sick a few times a day from the congestion. Now it appears he’s doing it some when he’s hungry. He makes himself sick about every day. I almost feel bad being so stressed about it because I know so many go through struggles with their children that are so much harder than this, but it is becoming very hard on me and my husband. Please pray that he can mature in this area and we can get some relief. Thank you so much, as I’m writing this I am tearing up knowing the love we have for each other here and feeling assured of your prayers making a difference. Much love to you all, praying that all of us grow through the lenten season!
Cassie of course we will be praying for you and your son. This is a safe place where we can Lay down or request knowing that we are being prayed for.
Praying for your sweet boy, and for you and your husband. May the Lord be with you, may He comfort you in the midst of this challenge and strengthen you to endure it well. May Ethan’s body be strengthened to overcome this sensitivity, and may God be glorified in it!
Praying for you and your family! We each have struggles unique to our own lives, so I don’t think you have to feel guilty about the stress it causes you. Jesus knows exactly how to walk through this with you ❤️
Ethan is in my prayers. And never feel that your struggles aren’t “enough” for others. No one wants their children to be in pain or sick. Prayers for healing being sent up!
I will be praying for Ethan to be healed of this and for you Cassie. God bless you both. Feel His healing hands on Ethan.
This, Ive been waiting for. Getting into the word and spending time with Jesus.
I am excited to begin this study. I have ordered the book for one of the other studies, and it had a passage of scripture to memorize. I do not see anything on the app about which passage to memorize. Anyone have the Lent study book?
Hi Brenda! Day 7 of each week provides the verse to memorize. It’s called the “Weekly Truth” and will show up in your app on that day.
Thank you!
Too often, I give in to the temptations of the devil because it seems “easier”. I need to remember that Jesus was also tempted, but He did not give in. He remembered scriptures and that gave Him strength. I need to remember to always rely on God when things get difficult. God is always by my side through the good and the bad. I can call on Him when things get tough. I am so looking forward to this study and the renewal it will bring!
Hey ladies! It is going to be a privilege to walk this journey with each of you. I am confident He is going to do amazing things in and through these next 40 days together. My church staff and I have committed to doing this study together and being intentional about praying with and for our brothers and sisters across the globe studying alongside us. If there is anything you would like specific prayer for, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Conviction! “We are trained to find our worth in usefulness and status, and to seek joy in our possessions. On the off chance we look down to find our hands empty, we quickly scoop up something to hold on to.”
Oh this is me. What do i need to pick up to entertain, pursue, accomplish? God has placed me in a new job where i can see the frailty of busyness. Having full hands does not mean being satisfied! May He continue to set things down for me so I can pick up only Him.
This was what convicted me too!!!
I have been focused way to much on the things of this world lately. I left a good salary and benefits to start a ministry I know the Lord led me too. But with one student in college, another about to drive and a mom dependent on me, I feel the stress mounting on my husband. I have heard my entire life “you can’t do ministry for the money” but I am just trying to help us sustain the basics. This was a reminder that I definitely needed.
I look forward each year to the Lent and Advent Bible Studies. Excited to join you ladies in this study. I rarely comment as I do not have a gift with words, but read your comments daily and find so much encouragement. Blessings to all of you, my sisters in the Lord!
Blessings to you Verna. I feel I don’t have words either, I just comment on how I’m feeling or something I’m going through or when something really stands out. The important thing is you’re here amongst us.
Easter is my favorite holiday. In the past I wanted to hurry through Lent. Such a somber season… Can’t we just get to Spring, Easter dresses in pastel colors and yes chocolate bunnies (no hollow ones for me, please)? And of course, Lent led to the Resurrection so let’s hurry to the empty tomb. Lent seemed all sadness, betrayal, suffering, brutality, death and burial. The Resurrection was all stone rolled away, angels, fulfilled promises and new life! The Resurrection had the wow. Lent was all woe.
As I’ve gotten older and more mature, I’ve come to treasure the Lenten season. The forty days of reflection give way to greater appreciation of all that Jesus did for me. How ungrateful I’ve been to skip over the details, to fail to comprehend the price He paid, the cost of the Cross. Easter is richer for pausing to remember the depth of Jesus’ love for me. Oh what a Savior! Wow indeed.
❤️
This is a timely message for me. I’ve been feeling so far from God. I hope that this study, will help me draw closer to my first love .
Those are difficult seasons. I will be praying for you Jamille.
Saying a prayer for you, Heather- that you may find his words like cake and lean on him daily.
God’s timing is so perfect.
Thankful to find this study. Please pray for me to come back to a close relationship with the Lord. Praying for revival.
Praying for you, Heather.
Praying
I will be praying for you Heather.
Praying now Heather ❤️
Praying now Heather!
I’m not sure how I missed that there is a podcast, but I’m so excited!!!
It’s great! The podcast has really helped me in these studies!
Where do you find the podcast? This is my first study with she reads truth. Thanks!
I benefit greatly from the podcasts, as well. I hear them refer to posting things in the podcast notes. Can someone help me know where to find that?
I have benefited from the podcasts, as well! They refer to podcast notes. Where do I find these?
Were are you seeing a podcast?
This is the first time I’ve done a particular study for Lent. I am looking forward to the focus on repentance–taking a hard look at the things I’m filling my hands with other than Jesus. That sentence jumped out at me this morning. I’m so guilty of always needing to have my hands full of something–something besides the sufficiency of Christ. Excited to be on this Lenten journey with you all.
Me too!
Looking forward to this study! I’m in need of a “season of refreshment”. To take pause and repent and turn back. Grateful for this Lenten season…very timely.
Me too!
I love Hebrews 4:15 talking about how Christ can sympathize with us because he was tempted but was found sinless. I tend to forget that Jesus was tempted in all the ways we are but His reliance and trust in the Father helped him overcome.
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I feel like this study is really needed at the moment! God is leading me through a season of rest and renewal, so I am looking forward to going through this study
Me too! I have been praying for business and work but maybe what I need is to be free to read scripture and pray each day like I haven’t before. I am thankful for the time now that I have realized I can really invest myself in scripture and put my relationship with the Lord first.
Wow! What great Scriptures today! Many sermons could be preached on each one. Isaiah 55 is one I’ve quoted. His thoughts and ways are higher than ours. Aren’t we all grateful for that! I too am looking forward to this study and listening to their podcast today.
Yes yes yes! So excited!
Remembering how we go out of this world to meet our Father with empty hands is so what I needed to be reminded of. To let go of things that don’t matter and hold the gifts of the Holy Spirit in my heart – I am so so excited to start this study.
Everytime I hear the word repent in the Bible and I pray about it and confess all the uglyness that’s inside me it feels like I’ve hit the reset button. The Lord hears us and loves us so much. I am so excited to start this bible study with all you lady’s!
I was thinking of creating a Spotify playlist with some of the many songs that illustrate Jesus’ purpose on this earth. I find those songs do such a good job at illustrating Easter.
Maybe you ladies could comment some suggestions?
I like this idea! Following.
There are so many songs to choose. Come As You Are by Crowder and Clean by Natalie Grant are two of my favorites.
.This morning I woke up with the song, “There is a Redeemer” by Keith Green on my mind. I love that song.
Man of sorrows by Shane and Shane
What a Beautiful Name by Hillsong Worship
I love “Once Again” by Matt Redman. It’s an older song but I love the call to continue to look towards the cross. Blessings xx
“Once Again” by Matt Redman. It’s a beautiful reminder for me.
I like this idea. Following.
Love this idea. I really love the song Shadow of the Cross. You can find it on You Tube by Reston Bible Church.
Me too!
What immediately jumped to mind was Raise a Halleluia! We sang it in worship yesterday and it brought such joy in Jesus’ resurrection my daughter could not contain it as she sang and laughed. I started a similar list for my personal quiet time and keep adding, finding the quiet prayer like songs are morphing into those of power and cheering. Blessings on you as you collect!
Death was Arrested by NorthPoint Worship ❤️
The song list is a great idea . Hillsong United “nothing but the blood “ .
King of kings by Hillsong worship is my go to, to remind myself who Jesus is and to just fall down worshiping!
Also run to the father by Cody Carnes
Way maker by Leeland
Another in the fire by Hillsong
Those are just a few on my worship playlist that I put on repeat!
What a great idea! I looked and there are several already – like: “40 Songs for 40 Days: A Lenten Playlist”
this week I have found my self constantly thinking about material things which I think are going to satisfy me I think lent will be a great opportunity to put down my wants for what the world has and want more of Jesus because he is the only one who can satisfy
Using Whole30 as a means to fast some of my eating habits that I’ve developed through the stress life as a 20-something and teacher in this Lent season. I have successfully completed one, tried again and failed, and have been intimidated to do it since.
These passages were key for me tonight as I pray over the next few weeks. Thank you! Would SO appreciate prayer through this journey.
Praying. That is no small task!
I was baptized today at 30 years old (I was baptized as a baby but made the choice as an adult today) and I did not remember until reading this that Jesus walked into the wilderness after his baptism. I have always loved lent for its call to study and to be cleansed and to deny our physical bodies in some way. I a, now looking even more forward to lent this year and this study
Like Candice, I believe this study has come in God’s perfect timing for me. I’ve known of and dabbled in the SRT community inconsistently through the years. This is the first study I’ve purchased, along with the HRT version for my boyfriend. For about two years, I’ve been going through a “deconstruction” phase, and I’ve struggled to find my place in the faith community. It feels like I don’t quite belong anywhere. I’ve allowed my experiences with other Christians get in the way of my relationship with Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, and I’m hopeful that this is just the “reset” I’ve felt I’ve needed.
This is great, thank you for sharing Amanda. I hope this is fruitful for you ❤️
Looking forward to walking through this season with you, Amanda. I pray for a refreshing of your spirit and a reminder that although other Christians aren’t perfect, Jesus is
Amanda, we can be your community. I certainly don’t have all the answers, but I love learning with y’all.
Amanda I can totally relate. I am in the SAME boat. I have let the “noise” around the church and what others say about my faith shape my own views. I walked away from my faith because of this. My husband and I recently found our way back and I joined this community so that I had truth and strength at my fingertips in the weak moments.
Throughout my life I’ve never really understood Lent. I always thought it was just another “Catholic thing”
I am so looking forward to opening my heart and soul to Christ and learning more about what He has done for us.
I literally said the same thing this morning as I was discussing what to give up for lent. How crazy is it that as an adult, I have practiced Christianity in some form or fashion my entire life, always trusted God, believed in God, but didn’t always live the life that was pleasing to him. At this time in my life my desire is to be more like him and even starting with the Lent study, I am already blown away as my spirit is feeling this in such a deeper level and I just did the introduction. I am SUPER excited about what this study has to reveal to me!
I thought the same thing! I listened to the podcast this morning and it helped me understand it so much more. I’ve never given up anything for lent because like you said, I thought it was specific to the Catholic Church.
It is absolutely unreal how much I needed these words just now. Balm for my soul. It was no accident I read this today. Praise you Lord!!!!!!!