40 Days of Lent – The 7 Amazing Benefits of Observing this Sacred Time

Let us now discover the life-changing, powerful, and profound benefits of observing 40 days of Lent.

As the Christian calendar turns towards the reflective and penitential season of Lent, believers embark on a 40-day journey of spiritual introspection, sacrifice, and renewal. This period, mirroring the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness, holds profound significance for Christians worldwide. Beyond its traditional association with fasting and abstinence, Lent encompasses a rich tapestry of spiritual practices aimed at deepening one’s connection with God and nurturing personal growth.

In this article, we explore seven transformative benefits of observing the 40 days of Lent, each encapsulating a unique facet of spiritual development. From cultivating deeper gratitude and embracing a gospel orientation to fostering longing for new life and focusing on forgiveness, Lent provides a sacred space for believers to draw closer to the Heavenly Father. Additionally, we delve into the concepts of more Christlikeness, proactive life change, finding time for God, and receiving repentance, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the Lenten journey.

As we embark on this exploration, we aim to uncover the transformative impact that observing Lent can have on individuals’ spiritual lives, emphasizing the potential for personal transformation and a renewed connection with the foundational tenets of the Christian faith.

Powerful Benefits of Observing 40 Days of Lent

Let us now discuss some of the life-changing benefits of observing 40 days of Lent.

Deeper Gratitude in 40 Days of Lent

The first benefit of observing the 40 days of lent is deeper gratitude.

• Observing Lent prompts us to reflect on our blessings and develop a deeper appreciation for the good things in our lives.
• It encourages us to focus on gratitude and recognize the abundance we often take for granted.

Observing Lent can lead to a deeper sense of gratitude, as it involves intentional reflection on the sufferings and sacrifices of Jesus Christ and the profound love of God. This deeper gratitude is rooted in the Christian belief of self-reflection, repentance, and preparation during the 40 days leading up to Easter. Here are some Bible references that can shed light on the concept of deeper gratitude:

1. Psalm 100:4 (NIV): “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” This verse encourages believers to approach God with gratitude, recognizing His goodness and faithfulness.
2. Colossians 3:15 (NIV): “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Gratitude is connected to the peace that comes from a relationship with Christ. Acknowledging the Almighty’s blessings fosters a thankful heart.
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV): “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This verse emphasizes a continuous attitude of gratitude, even in challenging circumstances, recognizing that God is sovereign.
4. 2 Corinthians 9:15 (NIV): “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” This verse emphasizes the incomprehensible nature of God’s gift, referring to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Observing Lent allows believers to contemplate the enormity of this gift and respond with deeper gratitude.
5. Romans 5:8 (NIV): “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice during Lent can lead to a profound understanding of God’s love, which can, in turn, deepen gratitude for the redemption offered through Jesus’ death on the cross.
6. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV): “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Lenten practices often focus on repentance and reliance on God’s grace. Understanding that salvation is a gift from the Heavenly Father can lead to a deeper appreciation and gratitude for His unmerited favor.
7. Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV): “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Lent provides an opportunity for believers to deepen their roots in Christ. A life rooted in Him is one marked by gratitude, as expressed in this verse.

During Lent, Christians engage in practices such as fasting, prayer, and acts of charity to draw closer to God. This intentional focus on spiritual disciplines prompts believers to appreciate the significance of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and the ultimate gift of salvation. Gratitude is a natural response when individuals reflect on the magnitude of the Supreme Being’s love and the redemption offered through Jesus.

Observing Lent with a focus on deeper gratitude involves not just going through external rituals but internalizing the spiritual significance of the season. Observing Lent provides a structured period for believers to cultivate a grateful heart by contemplating the teachings of the Bible, participating in communal worship, and deepening their relationship with God. This deeper gratitude becomes a transformative aspect of one’s spiritual journey, shaping one’s outlook on life and fostering a continuous attitude of thanksgiving.

Gospel Orientation in 40 Days of Lent

The second benefit of observing the 40 days of Lent is gospel orientation.

• By immersing ourselves in scripture, prayer, and reflection, we cultivate a better understanding of our faith and strengthen our relationship with God.
• Lent helps us realign our lives with the teachings of the Gospel.

Observing Lent can lead to a Gospel orientation, emphasizing a deeper focus on the foundational message of the gospel — the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This orientation encourages believers to align their lives more closely with the teachings and values of the gospel. Here are some Bible references that emphasize the importance of a gospel orientation:

1. Mark 1:15 (NIV): “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” Lent is a season of repentance and reflection on the good news of the gospel. This verse highlights the call to repentance and belief in the message of salvation.
2. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 (NIV): “Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel, you are saved if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” Lent is a time to reflect on the core elements of the gospel–the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Embracing these truths forms the foundation of a gospel-oriented life.
3. Galatians 2:20 (NIV): “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Lenten practices often involve self-denial and a focus on Christ’s sacrifice. This verse emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel, where believers identify with Christ in His death and live in His resurrection power.
4. Philippians 3:10-11 (NIV): “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.” Lent provides an opportunity to deepen one’s knowledge of Christ and participate in the realities of His life, death, and resurrection.

A gospel orientation during Lent involves more than just external practices; it encompasses a heart and mind that are tuned to the central message of Christianity. By emphasizing repentance, reflection on the cross, and a renewed commitment to living out the gospel daily, believers can experience a profound transformation during this season. This gospel orientation serves as a foundation for spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of the redemptive work of Christ.

Longing for New Life in 40 Days of Lent

The third benefit of observing the 40 days of Lent is longing for a new life.

• Lent is a time of renewal and rebirth, where we let go of old habits and cultivate new empowering, and healthier ones.
• It encourages us to embrace change and strive for personal transformation.

Observing Lent can instill in believers a sense of longing for a new life, mirroring the anticipation of Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This longing is rooted in the hope and expectation of experiencing spiritual renewal and transformation. Here are some Bible references that highlight the theme of longing for a new life:

1. Romans 6:4 (NIV): “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Lenten practices often involve reflection on baptismal themes, symbolizing a burial of the old self and a rising to new life in Christ. This verse underscores the connection between the death and resurrection of Jesus and the believer’s experience of new life.
2. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” The longing for new life is a central theme in Christian theology, and this verse expresses the transformative power of being in Christ, where believers become new creations.
3. Ezekiel 36:26-27 (NIV): “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.” Lent is a season for believers to yearn for the renewal of the heart and spirit, aligning with the promise of God to provide a new, responsive heart through His Spirit.
4. John 12:24 (NIV): “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” Lent is a time to reflect on the sacrificial nature of Christ’s death and how it leads to new life. This verse uses the metaphor of a seed dying and producing new life to illustrate the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice.

Observing Lent helps cultivate a sense of longing for the new life that is made possible through Christ’s resurrection. Through intentional spiritual practices, believers engage in a journey that culminates in the celebration of Easter, symbolizing the triumph of life over death. The season fosters a deep desire for spiritual renewal and a hopeful expectation of experiencing the transformative power of Christ in one’s life.

Focusing on Forgiveness in 40 Days of Lent

The fourth benefit of observing the 40 days of Lent is focusing on forgiveness.

• Lent emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, both in seeking it from others and offering it ourselves.
• By letting go of resentments and grudges, we free ourselves from the burdens of anger and find peace within our hearts.

Observing Lent provides an opportunity for believers to focus on forgiveness, both receiving God’s forgiveness and extending forgiveness to others. This theme aligns with the central message of Christianity regarding the forgiveness offered through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Here are some Bible references that highlight the importance of focusing on forgiveness during Lent:

1. Ephesians 4:32 (NIV): “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This verse emphasizes the connection between God’s forgiveness and the call for believers to forgive others. Lent is a season to reflect on the profound forgiveness extended to us through Christ’s sacrifice and to emulate that forgiveness in our relationships.
2. Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV): “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Lent serves as a time for self-examination and repentance, and this passage underscores the reciprocal nature of forgiveness. Believers are reminded of the importance of extending forgiveness to others if they hope to receive God’s forgiveness.
3. Colossians 3:13 (NIV): “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” The call to forgive others is rooted in the example of Christ’s forgiveness. Lent provides an opportunity for believers to reflect on the depth of the Holy Father’s forgiveness and to extend that forgiveness to others.
4. Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV): “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'” Lent invites believers to grapple with the challenge of forgiveness. Jesus’s response to Peter underscores the unlimited nature of forgiveness, encouraging a continuous attitude of forgiveness during this season and beyond.

Observing Lent with a focus on forgiveness involves intentional acts of reconciliation, letting go of grudges, and seeking healing in relationships. Through prayer, repentance, and acts of kindness, believers can actively engage in the process of forgiveness, mirroring the grace and mercy extended to them through Christ’s sacrifice. This emphasis on forgiveness during Lent contributes to spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of God’s love.

More Christlikeness in 40 Days of Lent

The fifth benefit of observing the 40 days of Lent is being Christ-like.

• Lent challenges us to emulate the virtues and compassion of Christ in our daily lives.
• It inspires us to live with kindness, humility, and selflessness, embodying the teachings of Jesus.

Observing Lent can lead to a pursuit of greater Christlikeness, seeking to align one’s attitudes and actions with the character of Jesus Christ. The Lenten season provides a focused time for self-examination aimed at conforming believers more closely to the image of Christ. Here are some Bible references that underscore the concept of aspiring to Christlikeness:

1. Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV): “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” Lent encourages believers to adopt the mindset of Christ, embracing humility, servanthood, and obedience. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the selfless nature of Christ that believers are called to emulate.
2. 1 John 2:6 (NIV): “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” The call to live as Jesus did encompasses all aspects of life, including attitudes, behavior, and relationships. Lent is a season for believers to reflect on how they can embody the principles and virtues exemplified by Christ.
3. Colossians 3:10 (NIV): “and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” Lent provides an opportunity for believers to engage in a process of renewal, growing in knowledge, and conforming to the image of God. The new self is shaped to reflect Christlikeness.
4. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV): “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” Lent is a time of contemplation and transformation, where believers are invited to gaze upon the glory of the Lord and, in doing so, are gradually transformed into His image by the work of the Holy Spirit.

Observing Lent with a focus on developing Christlikeness involves intentional spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, and acts of service. By aligning their lives with the teachings and character of Jesus, believers can experience personal transformation and grow in their likeness to Him. This pursuit of Christlikeness contributes to spiritual maturity and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Proactive Life Change in 40 Days of Lent

The sixth benefit of observing the 40 days of Lent is proactive life change.

• Lent encourages us to take proactive steps toward self-improvement and spiritual growth.
• It motivates us to break free from negative patterns and make positive changes that lead to a more fulfilling life.

Observing Lent can lead to proactive life change as individuals engage in focusing on actively seeking positive transformation in various aspects of life through a deeper commitment to God’s will. Here are some Bible references that highlight the concept of proactive life change:

1. Romans 12:2 (NIV): “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Lent encourages believers to actively pursue a transformation of mind and heart, breaking away from worldly patterns and aligning themselves with the Absolute One’s will. This renewal leads to proactive life change.
2. 2 Corinthians 7:10 (NIV): “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” Lent is a season for godly sorrow and repentance, leading to positive change and a renewed commitment to a life of righteousness and obedience.
3. Psalm 51:10 (NIV): “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” The Lenten season often involves prayers for inner renewal and purity of heart, indicating a proactive desire for personal transformation.
4. Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV): “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Lent provides an opportunity to actively put off old habits and attitudes and to put on a new self, aspiring to reflect the righteousness and holiness of God.

Observing Lent with a focus on proactive life change involves deliberate actions such as self-discipline, responsibility, fairness, social responsibility, and principled decision-making. It is not merely a season of temporary sacrifices but a time of genuine spiritual growth and positive transformation. By engaging in intentional practices, believers can experience lasting change and draw closer to God’s transformative power, allowing the Lenten season to catalyze ongoing, proactive life change.

Finding Time for God in 40 Days of Lent

The seventh benefit of observing the 40 days of Lent is finding time for God.

• Lent provides us with dedicated time to prioritize our relationship with God amidst the busyness of modern daily life.
• It encourages us to carve out prayer, reflection, and worship moments, strengthening our spiritual connection with the Holy Father in heaven.

Observing Lent provides a special opportunity for believers to intentionally find time for God in their lives. This involves setting aside dedicated moments for prayer, reflection, and spiritual practices, fostering an intimate connection with the Holy Trinity. Here are some Bible references that underscore the importance of finding time for God:

1. Psalm 46:10 (NIV): “He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'” Lent is a season for stillness and reflection, allowing believers to find time for God and truly know Him amid the chaos of everyday life.
2. Matthew 6:6 (NIV): “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Lent encourages believers to carve out time for private prayer, emphasizing the importance of a personal and close connection with God.
3. James 4:8a (NIV): “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” Lent is an opportune time to draw near to God, seeking His presence through intentional time spent in prayer, meditation, and contemplation.
4. Psalm 119:147 (NIV): “I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word.” Finding time for God may involve making sacrifices, such as rising early or adjusting daily routines, to prioritize seeking the Almighty Lord and placing hope in His Word.

Observing Lent with a focus on finding time for God encourages believers to deepen their spiritual lives and cultivate a more inseparable relationship with the Divine. Through prayer, Scripture reading, and other spiritual disciplines, individuals create a sacred space for communion with God. This intentional effort during Lent can extend beyond the season, fostering a habit of prioritizing the Supreme Being in daily life and contributing to spiritual growth and maturity.

Additional Benefit of 40 Days of Lent – Receiving Repentance

The eighth and additional benefit of observing the 40 days of Lent is receiving repentance.

• Lent invites us to acknowledge our mistakes, seek forgiveness, and strive for repentance.
• It offers us the opportunity to reflect on our shortcomings, make amends, and embrace grace and reconciliation.

Observing Lent provides an opportunity for believers to receive and embrace repentance, acknowledging the need for a turning away from sin and a turning towards God. Repentance is a central theme in the Lenten season, encouraging individuals to reflect on their actions, seek pardon, and pursue a life that aligns more closely with the Heavenly Father’s will. Here are some Bible references that highlight the concept of receiving repentance:

1. Acts 3:19 (NIV): “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” This verse emphasizes the connection between repentance and the forgiveness of sins. Lent is a season to actively turn to God in repentance, seeking the refreshment that comes from a restored relationship with Him.
2. Psalm 51:1-2 (NIV): “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.” Psalm 51, often associated with repentance, reflects a sincere plea for God’s mercy and forgiveness. Lent provides a designated time for believers to make similar heartfelt prayers, seeking God’s cleansing and forgiveness.
3. Luke 15:7 (NIV): “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” The joy of repentance is highlighted in this parable of the lost sheep. Lent is a season for individuals to experience the joy of turning back to God, knowing that it brings rejoicing in heaven.
4. 2 Corinthians 7:10 (NIV): “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” Lent encourages godly sorrow that leads to repentance and salvation. It prompts believers to confront their sins, experience genuine remorse, and turn towards God for forgiveness and transformation.

Observing Lent with a focus on receiving repentance involves a humble acknowledgment of one’s shortcomings and a willingness to turn away from sinful behavior. It is a season for sincere confession, seeking God’s mercy, and embracing the life-changing power of repentance. By actively engaging in this process, believers can experience spiritual renewal and draw closer to the Holy Father during the Lenten season and beyond.

In conclusion, observing Lent offers a myriad of benefits that go beyond the traditional practices of fasting and penance. It provides us with a transformative journey toward deeper gratitude, spiritual growth, and a closer relationship with God. Embracing the spirit of Lent can lead to lasting changes in our hearts, minds, and souls, ultimately enriching our faith and personal well-being. Let this season be a time of reflection, renewal, and rediscovery of the many blessings that surround us.

Recap – Benefits of 40 Days of Lent

To recap, the 40 days of Lent offer a sacred and life-altering journey for believers, encompassing a rich tapestry of spiritual practices that extend beyond traditional notions of sacrifice and fasting. The benefits of observing Lent are diverse and profound, touching various aspects of one’s spiritual life.

Through intentional practices such as prayer, repentance, and self-reflection, Lent cultivates a spirit of deeper gratitude, encouraging believers to appreciate the sacrificial love of God and respond with thanksgiving. The season’s gospel orientation reinforces the centrality of Christ’s message, guiding believers toward a more profound understanding of salvation and their role in God’s redemptive plan.

The 40 days of Lent journey also stirs a longing for new life, prompting believers to embrace the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection. Focusing on forgiveness becomes a central theme, fostering reconciliation, healing, and a deeper experience of God’s mercy. More Christlikeness emerges as a goal, challenging believers to embody the virtues and character of Jesus in their daily lives.

Proactive life change takes center stage as believers actively seek transformation, not just in behavior but in the very essence of their being. Finding time for God becomes a deliberate practice, creating sacred spaces for communion, reflection, and a heightened awareness of the divine presence. Finally, Lent offers the profound gift of receiving repentance, inviting believers to acknowledge their shortcomings, seek absolution, and experience the joy of a renewed relationship with God.

As we conclude this exploration, it is evident that the 40 days of Lent serve as a unique and meaningful season for spiritual growth, drawing believers into a deeper encounter with God’s grace and love. May these life-altering benefits resonate in the hearts and lives of those who observe Lent, leading to a richer, more profound faith journey.

Our articles on Lent will help you understand the need for God’s presence in your lives and use this season as a time of repenting, sobriety, refocusing, and renewing. Practice prayer, observe fasting, give up something, and assist those in need.