What to expect during this 7 week Lent devotional
As we step into this 7-week devotional journey during Lent, we are setting aside intentional space to seek God’s presence, grow in spiritual disciplines, and deepen our hunger for Him. Lent is not just about what we give up—it’s about what we make room for. Each week, we will explore different rhythms of faith that awaken our hearts to His voice—fasting, worship, solitude, celebration, and more. This is an invitation to press in, to realign our lives with His purposes, and to experience renewal from the inside out. Whether you’re stepping into these disciplines for the first time or seeking fresh encounters with God, we believe He has something powerful in store for you. Let’s lean in with expectation, believing that as we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us.
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A Call to Celebrate
Celebration is more than just a response to good circumstances; it is a spiritual discipline that calls us to recognize and rejoice in God’s goodness, regardless of the season. Throughout Scripture, celebration is an act of worship, a way to remember God’s faithfulness, and a practice that strengthens our joy in Him. It is not about ignoring hardship, but about choosing gratitude and praise even in the midst of it. As we set apart time for prayer, let’s also consider how we can cultivate a lifestyle of celebration—not just in the big moments, but in the everyday ways we acknowledge God’s presence and goodness.
Read Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!”
Celebration is a choice to focus on God’s faithfulness rather than our circumstances. When we practice celebration, we realign our hearts with the truth of who God is and the joy that comes from knowing Him.
Reflect:
Do you see celebration as a spiritual discipline? How often do you intentionally rejoice in God’s goodness? What would it look like to make celebration a regular practice in your life?
Read Nehemiah 8:10
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Celebration is not just about outward expressions of joy—it is about cultivating an inner strength that comes from rejoicing in God. When we take time to celebrate His faithfulness, we are reminded that our strength is not found in our circumstances but in Him.
Reflect
What can you celebrate about God today? How can you make space to intentionally rejoice in His goodness, even in difficult times?
Celebration and Intercession
Throughout Scripture, celebration is often linked to intercession—lifting up praise and thanksgiving not only for what God has done but also in anticipation of what He will do. The Israelites celebrated God’s deliverance (Exodus 15:1-21), Jesus rejoiced in the Father’s works (Luke 10:21), and Paul and Silas worshiped even while in prison (Acts 16:25-26). Celebration fuels our faith and deepens our trust in God’s promises.
Reflect
Who or what is God calling you to celebrate today? Is there someone you need to encourage with joy and gratitude? Write their name down and ask God how you can express celebration through your words, actions, or intercession.
Pray
Father, teach us to live with hearts full of celebration. Help us to see Your goodness in every season, to rejoice in Your presence, and to give thanks in all things. May we be strengthened by Your joy, transformed by gratitude, and faithful in celebrating Your work in and through us. Amen.
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A Call to Fast
Fasting is more than just abstaining from food; it is an invitation to draw closer to God, to realign our hearts with His, and to deepen our dependence on Him. Throughout Scripture, fasting is a spiritual discipline that humbles us, awakens us to God’s presence, and strengthens our prayers. It is not about earning favor or proving devotion—it is about making space for God to move in us and through us. As we set apart time for prayer, let’s also consider fasting—not as a duty, but as a way to seek God’s heart with greater focus and surrender. Whether it’s a meal, a day, or something else that has captured our affections, fasting helps us hunger for what truly satisfies: His presence.
Read Matthew 6:16-18
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face… your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Jesus assumes His followers will fast—not for show, but as an act of devotion. Fasting is a way to humble ourselves before God, seeking His presence above all else. Reflect: Why do you fast, or why have you avoided fasting? Is it to seek God or to get something from Him? Write down any hesitations or motivations that come to mind.
Read Matthew 4:1-4
“Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Jesus fasted before beginning His ministry, resisting temptation by relying on God’s Word. Fasting reminds us that true sustenance comes from Him, not just physical food. Reflect: What comforts do you turn to instead of God? How can fasting help you grow in spiritual hunger?
Fasting and Intercession
Throughout Scripture, fasting is linked to intercession—seeking God for guidance, deliverance, and repentance. Esther fasted for her people (Esther 4:16), Nehemiah fasted over Israel’s brokenness (Nehemiah 1:4), and the early church fasted before sending missionaries (Acts 13:2-3). Reflect: Who or what is God calling you to fast and pray for? A personal breakthrough? A loved one’s salvation? A need in your community? Write it down and commit to prayer.
Pray
Father, we confess our need for You. Teach us to hunger for Your presence more than anything else. As we fast, soften our hearts to the needs around us. Open our eyes, break the chains of sin, and deepen our dependence on You. We surrender to You.