Renewal and Revival: The True Purpose of Lent
Lent is more than a season of sacrifice — it's a season of renewal and Revival. While fasting, prayer, and reflection are key components of this sacred time, Lent's deeper purpose is to realign us with God's will and breathe new life into our spirits.
In Isaiah 40:31, we are reminded:
"But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."
This powerful verse speaks directly to the heart of Lent's purpose. Renewal restores our strength—a reminder that God's grace empowers us to endure even the most challenging seasons. On the other hand, Revival awakens our spirits—a stirring that ignites our passion for God's purpose in our lives.
Renewal: Restoring What's Been Depleted
The pressures of life can wear us down. Whether it's work, ministry, or family demands, we sometimes find ourselves physically drained and spiritually dry. Yet Lent calls us to pause — to intentionally create space for God to replenish what's been lost.
Renewal begins when we recognize our need for God's strength. Just as Jesus retreated into the wilderness for 40 days to pray and reflect, we are reminded that stillness before God is the key to spiritual renewal. In those quiet moments, God revives our spirits, restores our peace, and strengthens our resolve.
Reflection Question: What area of your life feels depleted, and how can you create space for God to renew your strength?
Revival: Awakening What's Been Dormant
While renewal replenishes, Revival reignites. Revival stirs us to action, awakening the gifts, callings, and passions that may have grown dormant over time.
Consider the story of Ezekiel's vision in the Valley of Dry Bones (Ezekiel 37). God instructed Ezekiel to prophesy over the bones, and as he spoke God's word, life returned to what was once lifeless. This powerful image reminds us that no matter how weary or broken we feel, God can breathe new life into our spirits.
Revival happens when we fully submit ourselves to God's direction. It's not just about being restored — it's about being empowered to walk boldly in our calling.
Reflection Question: What part of your spiritual life feels stagnant, and how can you invite God to revive it?
Living with Purpose: Proving That God Can Believe in Us
Lent is not just a season of reflection — it's a call to action. As we seek renewal and Revival, we must also commit ourselves to living in a way that shows God He can trust us with the gifts and purpose He has placed in our lives.
We prove our commitment by loving others, forgiving quickly, and serving selflessly. Each act of kindness, patience, and faithfulness shows that God's grace is alive and active in us.
Reflection Question: What steps can you take today to demonstrate that God can believe in you?
A Prayer for Renewal and Revival
Gracious and Loving God,
Thank You for this season of Lent — a time set apart for reflection, renewal, and Revival. We confess that we are sometimes weary, discouraged, or uncertain. But today, we stand on Your promise that those who wait on You will be renewed in strength.
Revive our hearts, Lord. Stir within us a deeper hunger for Your Word, a greater desire for prayer, and a more substantial commitment to serving others. As we walk through this season, may our lives reflect our trust in You — and may You find in us people You can believe in.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Closing Thought
Lent invites us to experience God's grace in more profound ways. As you embrace renewal and Revival in this season, trust that God is not only strengthening you — He's preparing you to live with purpose and passion.
Reflection Question: How will you use this season of Lent to prove to God that He can believe in you?
