Are You Looking for a Lenten Challenge?

February 14, 2023

By Brooke Holt

I am one of those strange people who absolutely loves a good challenge. At least twice a year, I sign up for a challenge to work out six times a week, five workouts in the gym and one workout on my own. These are not easy workouts; they are specifically designed to challenge the participants physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. 

Some days it is easy to make it to my workouts. Some days it is not! In fact, this morning was one of those days I could have missed the workout for a hundred reasons. BUT, I have no margin in my schedule this week, so I awakened at 5:00 in the morning to make the 5:45 a.m. class. Although painful, I did it. And you know what? I felt great after the class. There is something to be said about discipline and commitment. 

The health industry is pushing people to learn new disciplines which strengthen and heal the body. Is the church encouraging its people to learn new disciplines which strengthen and heal the soul? There is something unique about a challenge, accountability, and being pushed beyond what you would normally do on your own.  We also find something special in the community formed in a challenge.   

This Lent, I challenge you to take on a "40 Day Lenten Discipline"! What would it look like for you to invite your church, your small group, and your friends into a 40 Day Challenge with you? Bible Study Media understands the power of a Lenten study and has resources for you. Consider The Crucified Life. What does it mean to die to self and to live in Christ? Or take on the challenge of Draw Near and learn what it means to live a life of worship. Or engage in our newest Lenten study, Waters of Baptism, and over these next six weeks learn what it means to live as one set apart by the Lord in baptism and who is called to live in kingdom community. These studies provide daily devotional readings, weekly small group questions, and online video teachings. 

The resurrection of Jesus takes on even greater meaning after 40 days of discipline and sacrifice. This Lent, I would love to support you in your own discipline, your own challenge. Let me help you find the right study for your church, your small group, or you.  

I am at the end of my 40-day health challenge. I feel strong, accomplished, and awakened to new possibilities in my life. In fact, I am already thinking about my next challenge. While the process of transformation is not easy, it is so good. My ultimate desire is to look more like Jesus. In the pursuit of that goal, I need daily transformation! 

Reflection:

What transformation does God want to do in you this Lent? My coaching hat is on, and I am ready to walk this challenge with you. Forty (40) days of discipline really can change your life! We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Recommended Resources:

Jesus’ great commission to his apostles after his resurrection was to go into all the world to preach, teach, and baptize in the name of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. From the very beginning, baptism has been understood as the doorway into this new kind of family. Explore what Jesus expects of this new family that finds its origin and purpose in him. The baptized are called into a new life of faith. From passages in Matthew to the shining examples of faith in our passage from John, Waters of Baptism is a helpful resource for those seeking the sacrament of baptism or those who want a deeper understanding of their faith. This six week study will help us understand the importance of baptismal living.