What Is Lent?
For more than a thousand years, Christians around the world have observed the Lenten season with the sober acknowledgement that with humanity came sin; and with sin, came death. As contemporary believers, we are invited—though not required—to do the same.
Scripture tells us that we were made to know God and live in His perfect presence. God formed us from the dust of the earth, declared us to be good, and gave us the honor of bearing His image (Gn 1:27). But in sin, we rebelled against God (Genesis 3:1–7). And generations later, we continue to turn away from Him. We fail to obey and fail to seek after Him with our whole hearts. This sin affects not only our own relationship with God, but our relationships with one another and with all of creation—everything is subject to the death, decay, and frustration that comes from sin (Romans 8:20–21).
But God does not leave us in this state. The entire story of Scripture is that of a saving God—one who pursues His people, even after the initial sin in the garden. He invites us to return to Him, to be made new and be part of making all things new (Hosea 14:2,4–7; Zephaniah 3:17). This redemptive story culminated in God coming to earth in the flesh to meet our great need for salvation. Jesus Christ, God the Son, came to deliver us from sin and restore peace and order through His life, death, and resurrection (John 3:16–17, Romans 5:1–2).
We are saved by grace through faith, restored to God forever through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross (Ephesians 2:1–10). Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, we are invited to play a role in God’s redemptive work in the world as we await the day all creation will be perfectly restored.
Lent is a long, slow season. From Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday, we reflect on our desperate need for salvation before celebrating the miraculous, undeserved gift of Easter Sunday. We remember our need for forgiveness in order to truly rejoice in the unmatched, indescribable way our loving and merciful God meets that need.
Why Read Ezekiel for Lent?
The Lenten rhythm of repentance and remembrance is reflected in the story of Ezekiel. In walking through the book of Ezekiel over six weeks, we immerse ourselves in a story of holy judgment, merciful restoration, ever-present hope, and the promise of salvation.
Ezekiel’s original audience was a people in peril. They had been taken from their homes into exile in a foreign nation. Their leadership was corrupt, their hearts and worship were directed toward false gods, and their lives were seemingly without hope.
In speech after speech and display after display, the book of Ezekiel portrays the grim reality of sin, using graphic metaphors to grab the attention of both the original audience and readers today. These portrayals are an invitation to wake up to the reality of sin: it is destructive, an evil affront to all that is good and how everything was created to be.
As we read Ezekiel together, notice how deeply sin grieves God, and how deeply sin breaks community and relationship. Take time to acknowledge, lament, and confess your own sin. And do so remembering the completed work of Jesus Christ on your behalf, knowing how this story ends in everlasting life for all those who follow Him.
Ezekiel offers an invitation for us to look into our own hearts, to see what we worship and who we become when left to our own devices. It also points toward the redemption God desires for us, a consistent call to return to abundant life in Him.
Ezekiel reminds us that salvation from God alone is our hope, as the season of Lent and Easter declare that our ultimate hope—Jesus Christ—has already come.
Leave a Reply
298 thoughts on "An Invitation to Lent"
I absolutely loved this post! It beautifully captures the essence of Lent as a time for reflection and spiritual renewal. I’m excited to dive deeper into this season with the guidance you’ve provided. Thank you for this thoughtful invitation!
Just beginning this study – hoping to do it with a group of girls next spring ❤️
You didn’t have to but you still forgive us made sure we are okay gaves us opportunities for another day
♥️
This is really good. Hallelujah!!
♥️
Amen
❤️
❤️
Hallelujah
It is Your loving kindness that leads us to repentance❣️
Ps 143:8 “Let me hear of Your unfailing love each morning for I am trusting You. Show me where to walk for I give myself to You.” Thank you Father for your loving kindness that transforms us day by day. It is your kindness that leads us to repentance❣️
Ps 143:8 “Let me hear of Your unfailing love each morning for I am trusting You. Show me where to walk for I give myself to You.”
❤️
Amen and glory to the Father for giving us His only son to be the ultimate sacrifice so we all can be redeemed and restored back to our true purpose and love hallelujah. Thank you Abba Father
❤️
❤️
God will never stop pursuing us! Even after we mess up again & again.
❤️
❤️
I am pretty new to everything and definitely still learning. This is my first official Bible Study and I’m really pleased with it. I hope that I can remember this so I can be aware of my daily sins. This has already been eye opening, and I’m only on day 1!
God is merciful
Amazing, great to learn more about the lord! ❤️❤️
❤️
❤️
♥️
Day 1 of this for me. I need this and this is a priority. Awaken my heart my Lord. ❤️
❤️
❤️
❤️
❤️
♥️
Happy to start this
❤️
❤️❤️
Praying with and for you, ladies! May God’s glory bless you!
❤️
❤️
I started today! Such a special time with God this morning!
Began today and already, this is what I NEED.
Just starting today & so thankful to be here
So thankful for this study and this community. Reading Gods word is invaluable.
Me too!
Uncharacteristically, I am late to the party! Excited about this journey through Ezekiel.
I have to say, I’m encouraged to see I’m not the only one getting to this study a week late! I used to be so concerned about being “on-schedule” with the reading plan but it’s clear to me now that God truly wants our heart and understanding as we read His Word. Anyways, so excited for this study!
Thank you for this! ❤
❤️
❤️
♥️
I decided to abstain from social media this lent as well. I have idolized it for far to long and unfortunately, also use it as my news outlet. I cannot say how many times a day I open the apps to be hit with terrible heartbreaking and terrifying news time after time. This then sends me into a spiral of crippling anxiety. I struggled with this decision because I don’t want to be blissfully unaware of what’s going on in the world, but I simply cannot go on this way. I hope I’m able to take this time to focus on strengthening my relationship with God and my faith but not becoming I’ll with anxiety over situations I simply cannot control. I pray you have a strong social media free Lent, Kristi!
This is wonderful!
Love this study. So glad I was able to get this when I did.
Same here! :)
I eagerly desire the closeness that Christ offers.
I’m starting late , but I will catch up!
Good morning ❤️
Thankful for a God who has already fought for us and won the battle!
Started the study last week, but just got the devotional to go deeper.
Just started too!! So glad to see community.
It’s good to be here with you amazing ladies. Praying our hearts be softened to God’s word and eyes open to His calling.
Grateful for this time
Better late than never
Same Kristi. It’s such an easy thing to reach for to fill loneliness or anxiety and even just to numb ourselves after a rough work day
Have been guilty of that many times! One of my biggies is specific foods namely queso or sweet breakfasty breads Have already messed up a little this week but the running to those foods for fulfillment/comfort is my fast
Same Kristi. It’s such an easy thing to reach for to fill loneliness or anxiety and even just to numb ourselves after a rough work day
Starting late – the year got ahead of me (how is it already March!) so thankful for resources like these to take me through this season.
❤️
Starting a little late but I’m here now. I come to this study & to God completely empty & soul weary tired. After an internal fight with myself over what to fast from, I finally gave in to the call of fasting from social media. It has become an idol in my life & the place I look to for my fulfillment. God is tugging on my soul & asking me to come back to Him. That return is my prayer for the next 7 weeks.
can’t wait to get started❤️
♥️♥️
So good ❤️
so good!!!
Amen! Couldn’t have said it better
May I gain new understanding of a Jesus did for us and fast from things that take me further from God.
❤️
♥️
❤️
❤️
❤️
I’m starting a few days late but I’m super excited to do this study and fast from social media for the next 6 weeks. I can feel God tugging on my heart and can’t wait to see what He has in store to teach me over the coming weeks through this reading.
❤️
Praise God for the gift of eternal life that he freely gives and for loving us so much that he stretched out his arms and died. Please change my heart and help me to love like you Lord! Amen.
Yay
✝️✝️
The Lord will quiet you with His love
:)
I’ve grown up as a Christian but have never taken part in Lent. Looking forward to learning more through this plan.
❤️ I’m excited to truly delve into the Lent season for the first time
Praying for God to shine a light in all of my sins kno
✝️
Lord Jesus, come. You’ve invited us to this season of stillness. Help us to see the value of being alone with You that we might hear Your voice and heed Your word, free of distraction and clutter. We wait with expectancy for what You will do in and through us during Lent. Thank you for this beautiful community through which we may journey together.
Yes. Amen.
❤️✝️
❤️
I’m looking forward to digging into the Word and being intentional and mindful of the sacredness of this holy season.
❤️❤️
❤️
❤️
❤️
❤️
Too much indulging for me.. ❤❤❤
.
Same❤️
Sarah Hamilton and Lindsey Finch and others with app questions. When you are a subscriber to the monthly subscription boxes you get the app plans for free. Otherwise I think you pay 1.99 or something… a small fee. The difference between the study books and the app is that the study books do not have the devo but do have extras like recipes, time lines etc. good stuff. If you go to the website SRT.com you can get the Devos there. I get them via email too. Also, the app is where you get community. I have been a subscriber, I have also just purchased random books… Advent and Lent , the books are great. There is also a digital subscription available too. I highly recommend the podcasts. They are fabulous.
Same here!
Feeling shame is coming from the father of lies… not God the Father. Keep turning to Jesus and focus on him and put it behind you. Read in His word, His words to you, what He says about forgiveness.
Love this!! Thanks for sharing ♥️
Wow I realized it was lent just in time! Time seems to be slipping me by lately, so I am so grateful to participate in this plan. Is it just me or have others been called to ditch their earthly necessities sooner than today? I’ve felt the need to stop drinking and cleanse night my body and mind since about a month ago. Anyway, I am really excited to be here among my sisters in Christ! Sending love and prayers to you all!
We must all repent daily. Oh how He loves us, so undeserving. It is such a honor to be forgiven by such a just and forgiving Lord!
Hi all! I just subscribed to start receiving the monthly box today! So my first study book will be The Armor of God. Until then, should I just follow along with the Come to Life plan through the app each day? I’m still slightly confused with what is different from the app versus the study book, but I’m so excited to grow my faith and get in the word with you all. ❤️
Thank you Jesus for salvation that we can live in your presence!
Amen and praying in this season of repentance for all here, old and new, nations under siege, and all sinners seeking salvation, to, tgrough faith and grace God desires redemption for us all. Looking forward to this lenten lesson of Ezekiel, to strengthen the message for all, that God is with us.
Amen and praying in this season of repentance for all here, old and new, nations under siege, and all sinners seeking salvation, as God desires that redemption for us all. Spiritual transformation, drpendin
Hi! In your original purchase email, there should be a subscription code attached and then you can entered that code into the settings of the app that says subscriber! Hope this helps
I’m looking forward to observing lent and focusing on how my sin has resulted in brokenness in community and relationship – then realizing how God has restored those relationships. I’m also hoping to walk my toddlers and my small group through lent too.
Great expectations !!! His love for us is incomprehensible!!
When you subscribe to the monthly bible studies, you will receive a code/link for the app subscription for the bible reading plans. Hope this helps!
I have the same question!
I’m really excited to dive deeper into this study!
I’m a day late getting started but I hope to stay on schedule after this and look forward to focusing my heart on what it all means
I can’t wait to really get started and get deep into this study. I might have tried practicing lent but never really understood it. So I’m really looking forward to learning what it is all about.
Does anyone know how to get the devo on the app? I purchased the book and was under the impression that it came with the app version with the devo as well but do I have to pay more for the question part on the app/devo?
I am beyond excited for this study! I have never done an online study with She Reads Truth and I can’t wait!
I’m am beyond excited for this study. I have never practiced lent. I’m looking forward to praying and reflecting as I grow closer to Jesus.
Same here, I can’t wait !
This is my first time doing a SRT study, but I love the SRT Bible. I can’t seem to find the devotionals on the app. I saw some others ask, but haven’t seen an answer. However, I did find them on the homepage of their website on a browser. If that helps anyone else.
@Angie…always look for and enjoy your posts. Thank you for sharing. Looking forward to this study. All the comments shared bring these studies to a deeper level of understanding for me. Thank you!
Love ❤️
Reflecting on the depth of my sin and the great, great love of Christ which redeemed me to be his, is something I look forward to. The fact that I am no longer condemned by my sin, to be trapped in guilt forever, but am given a new heart, one that is made new by His Spirit. These truths are good to be reminded of. Daily. Thanks for leading us in humble repentance today.
Definitely can relate to Ezekiel’s audience. That feeling of peril sometimes is overwhelming. I find comfort in the reminder of my hope in Jesus Christ. Looking forward to seeing what areas in my life need to return to
an abundant life in Christ.
Excited!
❤️
❤️
❤️
Same! ❤️
I’m very excited for this journey! I’ve never been intentional with anything during Lent. I’m eager to grow closer to God during this season.
❤️
I never truly finished or been intentional with Lent but this year, I want to honor God with these days with my sacrifice to symbolize something bigger and better than anything I can do. To God be the glory forever and ever
❤️
Love Ezekiel
❤️
♥️
So good! Loved the verse from Romans 5.
I liked that scripture walked us through the process of recognizing and acknowledging our sin, feeling the weight of our sin and how it pains God and separates us from Him, asking for forgiveness, repenting and turning back to God because Christ has created access to the Father and salvation.
So good! Loved the verse from Romans 5.
First time doing a study on here. Already feel so engaged with God’s Word!
Very excited, I pray that as we start this Lenten season we can dive deeper into the word of God and create a greater relationship of thankfulness and praise towards Him.
My first study through this app. ☺️
Looking forward to this study!
Thank you for your honesty, Ally. I can definitely relate to a lot of the things you said. You are not alone. I will pray for you this season.
so excited for this study!! I’ve never read Ezekiel, so I can’t wait to dive in!
Excited for this, hoping to get back in the groove of Bible reading
Amen, thank God for Jesus
This is my first study with this program. Where is the devotional?
Super excited to be apart of this study!
So excited!
❤️
❤️
Grateful for this study!
❤️
Kyaira – Glad you are here! Remember shame is a tool satan uses to hold you back from God. 1 John 1:9 – If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If you are interested in some extra reading, Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table by Louie Giglio is a great book. Giglio talks about the lies satan gets us to believe and gives scripture to overcome these lies. Praying for you!
Looking forward to this! As a Catholic, Lent has always been a time of prayer and reflection. Excited to be refreshed!
Blessings to everyone who’s participating in this study may it continues to be a blessing in our lives !! Our Father chose this study for us for such a time as this ❤️
Looking forward to reading this plan through this season!
a5
Interested in reading Ezekiel through this context.
This is my first study thru the SRT app even tho I’ve had the bible for over a year now.. I’m excited to experience lent this way this year and thrilled to be studying Exodus thru this lense
This is my first Bible study with this app. I look forward to it and beginning my Lenten fast on Wednesday
A saving God who pursues His people even after initial sin in the garden. Redemption story to meet our great need for salvation. Jesus came to deliver us from sin, restore peace and order through His life, death and resurrection.
Turn to Jesus, He is the better everything. We need not hide. Come out of the shadows, come out from behind whatever we are using to shield ourselves from judgement. The shame we feel is not too much. Turn your eyes from what you’ve done and look upon the cross and what He has done. Come out of hiding daughters, we are safe in His presence. He is the Father who will love us best. No more hiding. Put down the glass of wine. Stop chasing pleasure. Put away the indulgences. They only cause us to wake lethargic and feeling guilty. Celebrate the light shining on our sins, He will wash us clean. Whiter than snow we are when we take His bread and wine, body and blood, eat and drink of His salvation. He rejoices over us when we return to Him (Zephaniah 3:17). Return to Him. Stay with Him. Life with Him is beautiful. He created us to live and represent Him on earth, from Eden we came, to the new Eden we will be. And in between the two gardens, we live with divine intervention and the Spirit of God is living with us when we accept Him fully in our heart.
Really looking forward to being a part of this study. This will be a first for me and I can’t wait to jump in!
Looking forward to this plan!!
Excited to participate in this Lent study. It is my first and I am ready for it!
❤️
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26)
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh
I read tbis comment today on another devotional I do on the First 5 app. The author, Laura said I could repost.But first, I wanted to share this from the study. We are reading Leviticus. We learned that: It’s interesting to note that the Hebrew word for “confessed” used in Leviticus 5:5, yāḏâ, is translated as “give thanks” or “praise” in other passages. (1 Chronicles 23:30; Psalm 7:17) While these may seem vastly different, they are all ways we can honor God. When we confess we have sinned, we agree we need to do things His way. We declare that God is God and He is worthy of our love and obedience. When we look at confession in this light, it becomes an act of surrender and worship.
I read some comments written to Kayaira. I didn’t see your original post, but I thought this might be helpful for you, myself, and others! Here it is; Laura wrote: I know You do not shame or condemn me. You forgive and restore me.” Wow. These words really hit home. If I am feeling shame or condemnation, which is different than conviction, I am believing the lies of the enemy. You forgive and restore. You are the God of Life, abundant Life, birthed in forgiveness and restoration. This IS something to praise about! Thank You, Jesus, for making intercession on my behalf as the accuser comes before the Father. When I am diligent to confess my sin, the enemy has no legal ground through which to do his dirty work. Thank You for this clear understanding of the need for confession, which is my praise for Your eternal forgiveness and restoration. I can stand spotless, without blemish and wrinkle, before the Father through this act of praise. Hallelujah to the Lamb of God! Hope this brings hope and peace. I thought it would be good to share. Prayers for you all!
I have never thought of it that way. Thank you for another perspective!
I am studying the minor prophets and this study will be a great accompaniment
I’m really looking forward to this study! Such a different way to focus for Lent!
Has anyone seen the daily devotional for today or know where it’s located within the app?
Excited Reader – I believe the reflection questions are only in the physical books.
Seven weeks of Lenten season is new to me. I’m grateful to join in with all of you and pray for a renewing of our hearts.
Welcome to all the new sisters! Our interim pastor is leading a Lenten study around the movie, Chocolat. This should also be an interesting view. For those who are not familiar with it, it takes place in a small village in France during Lent. Glad to spend this special season with all of you.
I am also excited for this study and will be here every day to learn more about this season of Lent with you all!
I’m so glad this was shared with me. I am excited to participate with everyone.
Genesis 3:9 – I love how God asked Adam, “Where are you?”. Lovingly yet firmly, He makes Adam step out of hiding and shame and back into the light. What a wonderful way to start Lent! Welcome to all the newbies!
Today’s reading reminded me that no matter what I do, God is always with me. He is there to pick me up and will meet me where ever I am when I am ready to turn to Him. He is good and His character will NEVER change.
Looking forward to this study!
I’m excited to start this season of lent with you all. My prayer is that God would show me sin in my life and help me walk in his redemption and healing.
Love joining in with everyone and have enjoyed the commentary on today’s reading. I’m looking forward to more!
Today’s reading gave me some much-needed reminders heading into this season. Too often I go into Lent only seeing myself from my fallen and limited perspective (i.e. I am my own worst critic). In the past this has led to a sense of shame, frustration, and even depression. BUT as I read today’s passages I was reminded that the Lord sees me from a different perspective. According to all the passages from today we are: healed, loved, saved, delighted in, at peace, justified by faith, given grace, set free, alive with Christ, seated with Christ, His workmanship. That list sent my heart soaring! Yes, I am a sinner BUT I am also all of those things through the power of Jesus Christ. While I can feel ashamed of my sin and failures like Adam and Eve in the garden, I do not have to LIVE ashamed. What a gift that we can reflect on our sinfulness and mourn our broken world but yet not let those things define us! Oh Lord, help us to remember who we are in You throughout Lent. Give us eyes to see our sin clearly, but remind us that we do not have to let it define or defeat us.
Ephesians 2: 1-10 reminds me how much God loves us. I sometimes forget how much He does. I’m ready to observe this lent.. which will be my second one! Lent is not only a season where we reflect on how much Jesus loves us.. but we remember the sacrifices Jesus made for all of us. We do this through self discipline and give up something that we usually like to do for 40 days.. this Lent I will give up Social media, using it at night, negativity, online shopping.. but I really want it to be social media, so I can focus on God alone!
Please pray for those in Russia. We must not forget to pray for others
I am new to Bible study and excited to be here!
Hi there! New to She Reads Truth. I read somewhere that there are reflection questions with the readings. Where would I find those? I believe they are emailed with the reading plan when you sign up for that method of following along. How do I sign up for those emails? Thank you so much! Looking forward to doing this plan with you all!
Hi, I am also coming into this season of Lent as someone coming back to Christ after years of feeling apart from the Christian faith. Always loving and believing in God, and Jesus, but not always participating. I’ve been reading the Bible with SRT community since August and have been cherishing this learning process as my own, not that of my family or that of my misunderstanding but learning about Jesus from my own deep longing to do so. And because I’m learning about this relationship in real time – This morning in prayer, I asked God – how do I repent? What is the way? Holding a beautiful childlike Faith in being shown the way to repent… and while I know in my whole heart that I am forgiven, honestly struggling a little in the hope department that I can change.
Thank you for sharing – it opened me up to share here too.
Hi, I am also coming into this season of Lent as someone coming back to Christ after years of feeling apart from the Christian faith. Always loving and believing in God, and Jesus, but not always participating. I’ve been reading the Bible with SRT community since August and have been cherishing this learning process as my own, not that of my family or that of my misunderstanding but learning about Jesus from my own deep longing to do so. And because I’m learning about this relationship in real time – This morning in prayer, I asked God – how do I repent? What is the way? Holding a beautiful childlike Faith in being shown the way to repent, and while I know in my whole heart that I am forgiven, honestly struggling a little in the hope department that I can change.
I’m thankful for these truths shared and looking forward to going through this study during this season!
Amazing to see so many new people joining us, welcome!
Mari V – Praying for you today
Kelly – Thanks, that’s a great suggestion
I’m excited to dive into my first Lent study as a Christian. I had participated in Lent as a kid since I grew up Catholic, but never found any actual meaning in it. It all looked very choreographed to me. And yes, it ended with the biggest miracle, the resurrection of Jesus, but I feel like the meaning of Lent always got lost in all the rules of it (if you know anything about Catholic lent, you’ll know there are A LOT of “rules”). From today’s reading, I noticed how in the garden, God already knew about Adam and Eve’s sin, but he still asked about it in a way that invited an opportunity for repentance. I’m thankful to God for revealing this to mw today. I had read this passage in Genesis numerous times, but today God decided to reveal to me His mercy from the beginning of time before Jesus had come. I pray that the Lord helps us identify and repent from our sins during this season
I’m so excited to begin this study with you ladies!
Wow, this was a Heavy hitter to start off Lent…. In a Good Way! Looking forward to reading with all of you!
Excited to start as this is my first one.
I’m excited for this study and am intentionally showing up each and every day during this Lent season. Looking forward to growing in Faith and God’s word.
I need this study and know I will hear God if I listen!
So grateful for all the wonderful posts here and all the new and returning people ready to do Lent together. Lent last year was my second SRT study. I went through some incredibly hard stuff right after Easter last year and it’s a little hard for me to be reminded of those feelings but I know that God is good and faithful no matter what. ERB thank you for sharing those insights. I will have to return later this evening to finish reading everyone’s amazing comments.
Praise God! Looking forward to this season of lent and journey with you all.
I will be welcoming a daughter into the world at the end of this and am looking forward to reading with her everyday!
Praise God! Looking forward to this season of lent!
I’m so excited to be participating in my first Lent!
9 But the Lord God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?” – Genesis 3:9
Still a question God asks of us today…..He of course already knows, but do we?
9 But the Lord God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?” – Genesis 3:9
Excited for this season of lent and to see the spiritual growth at the end of it
Same!
Loving my Jesus is playing as I read the comments. My hope for the Lenten season is that I will Love my Jesus with my whole heart. That I will reveal my sins and not hide in shame. That I remember whose child I am. That HE is all forgiving if I only go to Him. Where would I be without You my God?!
I pray for Ukraine and the courageous people who are so willing to fight for their country. It is tragic…
Changing my perspective on what to give up over lent.
What a great takeaway thanks for sharing
I was thinking about the Genesis passage were Adam blamed his eating the fruit (sinning) on Eve. It made me wonder, how often do I blame others or things for my sins rather than confessing that I am the one to blame. How often do I justify what I’ve done against God? That is something I’m going to pray about today.
I can’t believe we are starting Lent already. This will be my 3rd one. It can get to where it seems long and won’t end and then when Holy Week comes, you see that the long study was all worth it! It makes that whole week and Easter come alive.
I’m excited to learn more about Lent❤️
Although nit my first lenten season, it is the first that is intentional and done with purpose. I am doing this process on my own and to have better understanding.
✝️
Excited to see what this season of Lent holds in store for me.
Committed to rising early everyday this season of Lent to follow this study!
I have observed lent most of my adult life, but have never been able to stick with a reading plan through it. I’m determined this time! This study looks amazing!
Looking forward to this Lent journey!
Never read Ezekiel and never in a community- so I’m looking forward to this study. Have a blessed day ladies!
i pray that as we all go into this Lent season today, that we would continuously remember the resurrection of Christ and how it is solely through that that we are able to draw near to our Heavenly Father and seek forgiveness.
Excellent point
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 NIV
God has loved you with an everlasting love, Kyaira! Greater is the One who is in you than the one who is in the world. When you are weak, then He is strong!
Good morning SRT sisters. I have to go in early today but I just wanted to say good morning and I’m so grateful and so excited and looking forward to join all of you in this Lent Study. I’m excited to see what God’s gonna do in all of us. No matter what happens I know that I know God is good. Prayers are appreciated right now.
Looking forward to this study so I can truly focus on this season of remembrance. To often we get so caught up in the business of life. It is so good to take time to stop, remember and reflect on the sin that separated us from God, the grace He extends us through Jesus and forgiveness that brings us back into fellowship with Him. All because of the power of the cross of Jesus Christ!
It’s so wonderful to see so many new names here today. Thank you all for sharing, it’s such a blessing to see the evidence of God working in our lives. Have a wonderful day She’s!
I am so excited to read this study!!
My story in relation to this text:
I grew up Catholic and learned that God was my Creator. I did not fully understand salvation, at first. I started going to Awana Club with my good friend Chelsea. One thing we did was read the Bible and try to memorize Scripture. Honestly, I would just memorize Scripture to forget it again. I think it was KJV, and I wasn’t fully digesting what they told me to memorize, for whatever reason.
One day, a teacher wrote down John 3:16 and explained pretty simply to us that we’d die if we did not receive Jesus as our salvation. My brain and heart computed I was living in sin and needed Jesus, so in that moment, my soul was saved. I was in grade school.
I have been reflecting on that all week, as I told a new friend this week how I came to Christ. I almost lost sight of Christ as an adult in the New Age, but as John 10:28 promises, Jesus does not lose grip on His sheep. He is so faithful.
In my early college years, God used a passage in Ezekiel 36 to tell me I was living a life that opposed Him. I’ve never studied this book in depth, so I’m excited to see what God has to teach me.
Today, I reflect on my own salvation story. God set it up for me to receive salvation that day in Awana Club. I am so thankful!
I pray other girls here would reflect on their salvation story, too!! Please share if you feel to do so :) <3
We cannot truly know the depth of His grace without first recognizing the depth of our sin and our need for His grace. I think all to often Christian culture today focuses entirely on the love and grace of God and not so much on sin. I praise God for His grace and forgiveness! What a good and loving God. But I’m looking forward to this Lenten study as an opportunity to not wallow in my sin but to remember my deep need for His grace by taking time to recognize my sin and then His incredible response of love.
I am excited for this Lenten season and to do so in community. I have not consistently followed Lent but am excited for the next few weeks. Praying that God gives me wisdom to understand his word and that I would realize how much HE LOVES ME (US)!
““Come, let us return to the Lord. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bandage us. He will revive us after two days; He will raise us up on the third day, That we may live before Him. So let us know, let us press on to know the Lord. His going forth is as certain as the dawn; And He will come to us like the rain, Like the spring rain watering the earth.””
Hosea 6:1-3 NASB1995
https://bible.com/bible/100/hos.6.1-3.NASB1995
Amen!
So excited to start this study and observe lent!
This will also be my first time experiencing lent, and I’m so glad I’m doing it in community with you all. Thank you God for giving me a heart that desires to confess my sins, repent, and turn towards you.
Although I have been a Christian since childhood, this is the first time I am going to observe lent. I am so grateful that we “get to” focus on our sins through the lease of God’s grace! ❤️
Where is this reference from? It’s really good-ashley
I have never observed lent before, and am looking forward to experiencing it for the first time!
So thankful for forgiveness & thankful that God is about the work of repair of our flesh from death to life.
This is my first Lent reading and I’m very excited to see it through.
I love that the focus of this study is on the book of Ezekiel and I cannot wait to witness all that God wants to do and show us through this study. I am excited and expectant at the same time. I am praying that my heart and all of our hearts will be open to receive instruction from God.
I’ve just read the introduction and listened to the podcast and can’t wait to review each scripture in detail and journal my thoughts and how God is speaking to me. How will he change my heart and my life? Only for the better. Open my mind, Lord, and show me what I need to see, tell me what I need to hear and guide me to you.
I’ve observed lent before but never with a guide, I’m so excited to have this wonderful resource! A church friend is joining me this lent who is not yet a believer, praying God will move their heart over the next 40 days!
Good Morning She’s!
I love the season of Lent, giving more of our time, setting aside to focus above, on the One who gave it all. He is worthy, the Almighty, Lord of Lords, the great I Am.
It can be overwhelming. It is too easy to focus on worldly things and our everyday life itself zaps up our energy. What helps me is keeping the radio on with worship music at home and about. Also making time to listen to the SRT weekly podcasts. They are really encouraging. Another podcast I listen to weekly is The Unfolding, which is a weekly story of people that have a good testimony of how God worked in their life! And of course, starting my day right here with SRT each morning! There is no better way to get closer to God than to be in his word every day!!
My challenge is trying to memorize verses, I am so bad at memorizing and retaining! I know there is an app (of course, lol) to help memorize.
Have a good day. Good to see new names, and some names I have not seen in a long time! I remember YOU Momtomany!
Praying my eyes and heart will be opened during this season.
So thankful already for this study and how God is going to grow my heart through it. I never knew about the seasons of the church until recently, and it excites me so much to have a rhythm to my days. I cannot wait to implement this in my family and see what God does through intentional times with Him.
Ready to dive into God’s word with my whole heart. I truly need to discipline myself into having my alone time with God every morning . I cannot wait to see what I am going to learn and how I will grow after these 7 weeks!
Excited to follow this study as we approach the Easter season ✝️
I have followed SRT for years but don’t comment often although I read every comment and pray for the requests,
I pray that during Lent Jesus will strip away all that so easily entagles and I can focus on Him alone as we journey this road together for another year.
More of you Jesus.
Thanks full for a 7 week study to focus my heart on God in the time of so much going on.
Silence and solitude is a powerful discipline. Worship is also a powerful way to fill that time. Personally, I’ve been working on the discipline of memorizing scripture.
Good morning! Excited to dive deep into this study! I have never read or studied Ezekiel this deeply. Excited to get started!
I can see how my sin distances me from people instead of reaching out to them, to both share and receive love. Looking forays to focusing on God’s redemption and return to life through his grade.
I can see how my sin distances me from people
Good morning! I am looking forward to giving up my “earthly idol” for lent, and truly just focusing on Jesus and my relationship with Him. I am also hopeful that this will improve my relationships with family, and with myself. Less focus on me and my earthly idol… and more focus on my relationship with Jesus! ❤️
Thank you. So blessed fir SRT’’s community. Looking with great anticipation to the Lenten study. Be blessed today ladies!❤️
Hopefully my posts/what I learned this morning brings you as much clarity, insight, deeper thought and understanding as it did me!! Much love to all you dear sisters!! Be Blessed today and always!! …and sorry for the multiple posts… it wouldn’t let me share/post it all in one!
YAY!! It finally let me post!! Maybe my original post was too long?
Here is the second part of what I wanted to share..
The following is an excerpt from The MacArthur New Testament Commentary on Ephesians 2.
And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. (Ephesians 2:1–2)
A person who is spiritually dead has no life by which he can respond to spiritual things, much less live a spiritual life. No amount of love, care, and words of affection from God can draw a response. A spiritually dead person is alienated from God and therefore alienated from life. He has no capacity to respond. As the great Scottish commentator John Eadie said, “It is a case of death walking.” Men apart from God are spiritual zombies, the walking dead who do not know they are dead. They go through the motions of life, but they do not possess it.
In the state of spiritual death, the only walking, or living, a person can do is according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Kosmos (world) does not here represent simply the physical creation but the world order, the world’s system of values and way of doing things—the world’s course. And as Paul makes clear, the course of this world follows the leadership and design of Satan, the prince of the power of the air.
What we often call “the spirit of the times” reflects the wider course of this world, a course in which men are in basic agreement about what is right and wrong, valuable and worthless, important and unimportant. Sinful men have many different ideas and standards, but they are in total agreement that the network of things in this world is more important than the divine perspective of God. In this most basic world outlook they are of one mind. They resolutely work to fulfill the goals and values of their system, though it defies God and always self–destructs. Sinners are persistent in their rejection, and the worse their system becomes, the more they try to justify it and condemn those who speak the Word of God against it.
They are of one mind because they have a common leader and lord, the prince of the power of the air. Satan is now “the ruler of this world,” and until the Lord casts him out (John 12:31) he will continue to rule. The power [or authority] of the air probably refers to Satan’s host of demons who exist in the heavenly sphere. Paul has this in mind in Ephesians 6:12, where he warns of “the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” During the present age he and his demon host dominate, pressure, and control every person who is unsaved. He is the personification of spiritual death because he is the personification of rebellion against God—and so is the system he designed.
Satan is the archon, the prince and ruler over this world system. Not all unsaved people are necessarily indwelt at all times by Satan or are demon–possessed. But knowingly or unknowingly they are subject to Satan’s influence. Because they share his nature of sinfulness and exist in the same sphere of rebellion against God, they respond naturally to his leading and to the influence of his demons. They are on the same spiritual wavelength.
As with the world, the air over which Satan has controlling power represents the sphere where demons move. The air could be used metaphorically, as when we speak of an “air of expectancy:” In this context world and air would be almost synonymous, both of them representing a realm, or sphere, of influence. In that case it would be a reference to the realm of ideas, beliefs, and convictions over which Satan now operates as prince. But it is not that which is in Paul’s mind here or in 6:12. He has in mind the fact that Satan rules the power (demons) who occupy the air (the heavenly sphere around the earth). Men are not free and independent; they are totally dominated by the hosts of hell.
I have been trying to share something that I learned about the “power of air” (Ephesians 2:2) but for some reason it won’t post… ?? I will try again… 3rd times a charm right?
Satan is the prince of the power of the Air. Sending mind control, demons, and witchcraft, through the airwaves, he is the ruler over everything in the atmosphere and in the second heavens. The world’s “air,” or spirit, is an invisible, impelling force that incites disobedience to God and fosters “the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes.” “The the authority” of this spirit lies in it.
1 John 2:16 “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”
1 Timothy 6:9 “But fthose who desire to be rich fall into temptation, ginto a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that hplunge people into ruin and destruction.”
(reference: quora)
I’m following up on my own comment about shame about sin because I’ve read some more verses and I’m hearing God say to trust Him. He is love. He is love. He is love. I have no reason to doubt Him. I can believe His Word and His truth. He loves me. He sent Jesus to die for us; of course He loves us! I’m humbled by the love that I don’t deserve.
I confess my sins of doubt and distrust. Lord God, I have failed to turn to You and trust You with my whole heart. I have doubted Your love, even after You sent Your only Son Jesus to die for me. I’m so sorry for all of my sins and doubts. Please forgive me and have mercy on me. Turn my shame into humble worship and praise to You for now and forever. Hold me closely to You and help me to not turn away from You again. You are my Heavenly Father, King, and Creator, and I want to spend eternity with You, praising You. Please forgive me for my sins. Amen.
Come Lord Jesus come. Amen
Thank you for sharing Kyaira ❤️ I’ve been through similar struggles of falling into old sinful patterns and letting the shame keep me in the dark. One thing that helped me was understanding the difference between shame and guilt. Guilt is actually a gift- in that you are aware that you’ve done something wrong and you can act on it- repent from sin and start a new path. Shame on the other hand is a lie and makes us feel like there is something inherently wrong with us. It took me a long time to understand the difference but once I did it was so freeing to leave shame behind. You are loved by God just as you are and he will meet you right where you are. None of us are “good enough” and that’s why we need a savior ❤️
Thank you for sharing Kyaira ❤️ I’ve been through similar struggles of falling into old sinful patterns and letting the shame keep me in the dark. One thing that helped me was understanding the difference between shame and guilt. Guilt is actually a gift- in that you are aware that you’ve done something wrong and you can act on it- repent from sin and start a new path. Shame on the other hand is a lie and makes us feel like there is something inherently wrong with us. It took me a long time to understand the difference e it once
♥️♥️
Looking forward to this study. ❤️
I have to admit that I’m a bit nervous for Lent. This is my first time observing this season as a Christian, and as I skimmed Ezekiel this morning, the beginning half of the book seems to be quite grim. I feel quite convicted of my sins- my utter depravity- and how I completely deserve to be separated from God. I know that I am undeserving of salvation. And yet… God offers it. He says, through His Word, that I can accept it. And most days, I am awed and humbled and fall to my knees in praise to Him. Other days, I can’t quite understand how God could possibly love me that much to send His Son to die for me. Especially when I read stories like Ezekiel, when I’m reminded how badly humanity sins- including me. I want to spend this season reflecting on God’s awesome grace. I want to be able to truly believe the good news that is coming on Easter Sunday that is the Truth. How can I overcome my shame and despair in my sins and turn it to praise, worship, and joy? Thank you, sisters, for your help as I continue my journey in my faith. Lifting up all prayer requests and praying for peace in Ukraine.
Becky, I think I’ve found my prayer for Lent in your words. Thank you for this!
Excited to refocus and dive into the the core of my faith! Lord, I pray that you will renew our hearts and help us wholeheartedly seek you as sisters in Christ.
If you have the book for this study, An Invitation to lent comes before the scriptures of the day. Today feels like another day in the garden.
Praying in this Lenten season I can truly focus on giving to God what it is my heart focuses on rather than the truth of God. Praying for comfort in repentance and a desire to seek God in all moments, rather than seeking what I desire I from myself or the world first. Praying for a heart of humility and a heart to listen to what God is saying through this study.
I’m excited to dig into this study and claim back some intentional time in the Word by eliminating distractions!
This is my first Lent reading plan. Excited to do this with you ladies.
I am in a season of having a lot of time to muself
So thankful for this new study, especially as the world is so chaotic right now. Yet even with “wars and rumors of war” I’m finding that focus on Scripture is giving me peace in these troubled times. Which is why I’m also thankful for familiar verses like “8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, – Ephesians 2:8. Reminding us that even in our sinful nature, God shows us mercy and unending love, plus the promise that we will see him one day.
By looking at my sin more closely during the coming weeks, Easter Sunday will be all the more glorious.
I am so looking forward to this study!
It is a busy season of weddings (joyful) but also of sadness (death of father-in-law and aging of mother). My mind is full and unsettled. Release from my heart those things that keep it from being yours Lord.
❤️
excited for this! ❤️
Ready to dive into this!
Created in God’s image.
tricked by evil, resulting in sin and separation from God.
O.T. promise after promise of redeeming love:
-a new heart and spirit
-upon returning to the Lord; forgiveness-induced-praise from our lips is promised
-healing
-our Warrior God’s protection, rejoicing, quiet love, and song OVER US, His redeemed
N.T. promise after promise
-God gave His Son offering eternal life and freedom of condemnation
-justified by faith, through the grace of God alone, for His glory alone
-broken chains of bondage
-we, though dead in sin, were made alive in Christ
-saved by the gift of grace through Christ alone,
-created by Christ for good works, prepared ahead of time
A few additional tidbits from my weekend as well:
“We walk below our redemptive potential when we walk in our own strength instead of the strength of the Spirit.”
In Christ, the distinguishing mark of a Christian is compassion and service.
We do not overcome our selfish tendencies by working harder, it is only through asking the Holy Spirit who delivers us.
That Spirit dwells within us, for His children are now His temple, God’s home.
“The Bible is full of Truth, we don’t get to pick and choose which Truths to obey.”
Truth over feelings.
Our Triune God deserves unconditional surrender and unreserved worship and praise.
Grateful for God’s mercy, forgiveness, and love. This study came at the perfect time!
This should be a good one and much needed right now.
Praying for you in this season, Rebecca!
“Who we become when left to our own devices”
This has been a struggle for me, finding my feet in Jesus when surrounded by people who are not walking in the light. Help me to reflect Jesus and his goodness and righteousness! Holy Spirit, remind me to put on the armor of God before walking into the world every day.
“Who we become when left to our own devices”
‘Who we become when left to our own devices’
I’m hoping to join through this study too… been really lacking in motivation and direction recently so hoping this will focus me, and joining in with the community is so helpful too!
Arina – since you are already familiar with Compassion International tou spend time everyday praying for unsponsored children who are listed on their website. Or if you go to the website for Voice of the Martyrs you will find prayer requests for those in the persecuted church.
Thrilled to dive into this- comes at a time of many future decisions trying to be made, and praying for guidance. Looking forward to seeing what my errors are and how to better completely lean on the Savior.
Thrilled to dive into this- comes at a time of many future decisions f
So good! Looking forward to his study. I’ve come to realise that the topic of sin isn’t very present in my faith in some ways, so it’ll be great to dive deep into that during this study.
Also, I’ve been thinking about how I want to do Lent this year. I want to fast by limiting the time I spent watching videos and scrolling on my phone. But I’m still figuring out what to do with the extra time I get by cutting that out. I want to use it to focus more on God. Anyone any tips?
I love this! I’ve not long gone back to worshipping Jesus as I have struggled with my faith. I feel like this study is going to help me get back on track with him again.xx
Absolutely taking the words of repentance and returning to God!
Like the prodigal son, I come Lord God, covered in my sin, my waywardness, my disobedience.. I come, Lord God, knowing there is no greater forgiveness, no greater Hope, no greater love than what I have in you.
Thank you Lord God, that as I come, returning to you, there is Hope, always a Hope of salvation, found in Jesus Christ your Son, my Saviour..
What would my life be..
BUT GOD..
Thank you Lord God. Thank you ❤
Happy Monday my dears wrapped in love and hugs.❤
Listen to the song, The Father’s House by Cory Asbury. I hope this helps.
Amen, Kyaira. Welcome back home ❤️ One of my favourite portions of Scripture (that I return to for constant encouragement) is Romans 8. Verse 1 starts: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” I love the surety that chapter 8 is written with because there can be many many times when I feel unsure and questioning, so it’s a good reminder and encouragement. The shame you feel is a lie. You are God’s precious child who has been convicted of her sin and has returned home like the prodigal son. So I say it again, Welcome Home ❤️ praying that we all experience the conviction, repentance and restoration that leads us to true rest in our Lord.