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Day 1: Giving up a Negative Attitude

During the season of Lent, it is common practice to ‘give something up.’  Usually that something is an item of luxury; a treat of sorts.  Giving up sweets, junk food, pop, TV, etc. are common things given up.  What does giving up these particular types of items do for our walk with God.  Does it bring us closer to Him?  Does it cause us to turn to Him in prayer or praise?  Or is it simply something we know we like so we should honor Him by giving up our ‘treats.’ 

To give something up for 40 days, it should have God at the core.  It should cause us to turn to Him, praise Him, glorify Him, and learn how to walk closer to Him. 

What if we gave up sins of the heart?  Think of one area that seems to be a current struggle.  Do you find yourself tempted to whine and complain too often?  What about pride?  Selfishness?  Impatience?  Anger?  Laziness?  The list could easily go on.  During this Lenten season, I challenged my Sunday school class to try to choose one of these struggles and work to replace it with prayer.  When feeling impatient; stop and ask the Lord to increase your patience.  When getting ready to complain; stop and praise the Lord for your blessings.

I personally want to live with a more grateful heart.  With two little girls to raise, a home to keep, a husband to love, and job to fulfill; I find myself grumbling about keeping up with it all far too often.  I’m going to work to give up my ungratefulness for Lent.  When my daughters are pushing the limits; I want to stop and thank the Lord for them.  When my home isn’t as kept as I think it should be; I want to stop and thank the Lord for a warm home. 

What would happen if we all worked to give up the sins of the heart?  What if each of us stopped to thank the Lord or turn to Him and asked for help with our attitudes and mindsets.  How could we change our world?   


My hope is grow closer in my walk with the Lord.   I want to live every moment for Him and I want my life to reflect my love for the Lord.  I want to #livewithagratefulheart #lent2017 #40daysgrateful
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