When it comes to giving up something for Lent most of us go with killing two birds with one stone- you know, the one bird reminding you to get into shape for Spring Break and the other reminding you to give up something for Lent. You've got the go-to give ups. You know, the usual C addictions: coffee, chocolate, candy, chipotle. While it may be impossible to give up chocolate forever, there are some things you may be better off without even after Lent is over.
Grudges.
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32
Anger.
"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." James 1:19-20
Comparison.
"Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don’t have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless–like chasing the wind." Ecclesiastes 6:9
Negativity.
"The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out." Proverbs 17:14
Gossip.
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Worry.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6
Fear of the future.
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:4
Envy.
"A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones."
Proverbs 14:30
Sadness.
"So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun." Ecclesiastes 8:15
Self doubt.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
Self hate.
"You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you."
Song of Songs 4:7
Uncertainty.
“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.” Exodus 23:20
