· Give Up grumbling! Instead, “In everything give thanks.” Constructive criticism is ok, but “moaning, groaning, and complaining” are not Christian disciplines.
· Give Up 10 to 15 minutes in bed! Instead, use that time in prayer, Bible study and personal devotion.
· Give Up looking at other people’s worst points. Instead, concentrate on their best points. We all have faults. It is a lot easier to have people overlook our shortcomings when we overlook their’s first.
· Give Up speaking unkindly. Instead, let your speech be generous and understanding. It costs so little to say something kind and uplifting.
· Give Up your hatred of anyone or anything! Instead, learn the discipline of love. “Love covers a multitude of sins.”
· Give Up your worries and anxieties! Instead, trust God with them. Anxiety is spending emotional energy on something we can do nothing about - like tomorrow! Live today and let God’s grace be sufficient.
· Give Up TV one evening a week! Instead, visit some lonely or sick person.
· Give Up buying anything but essentials for yourself! Instead, give the money to God. The money you would spend on the luxuries could help someone meet basic needs. We are called to be stewards of God’s riches, not consumers.
· Give Up judging by appearances and by the standard of the world! Instead, learn to give up yourself to God. There is only one who has the right to judge, Jesus Christ.
I hope these tips will help you towards a meaningful and holy Lenten season.
Pastor Michael
