25 Things to Give Up This Lent

Lent is a season of reflection, sacrifice, and spiritual growth. It’s a time to pause, look inward, and let go of the things that weigh us down or distance us from our faith. While many people focus on giving up chocolate or social media, Lent is also an opportunity to release habits and mindsets that hinder our journey towards a deeper relationship with God.

We’re a few days away from Ash Wednesday. In this article, we explore 25 meaningful things to give up this Lent, helping us embrace a more intentional, joyful, and faith-filled life. These have been put together by ChurchPop. If you aren’t following them then do so right away!

What are you giving up this lent? Let me know in the comments below!

The Art of Inner Joy: Why Your Happiness Shouldn’t Hang by a Thread

We live in a world that constantly tells us what we should be happy about—a promotion, a new relationship, a shiny possession, or even the perfect Instagrammable moment. But what happens when those things slip away? What happens when the job is lost, the relationship ends, or the shiny new car gets a scratch? C.S. Lewis, the brilliant author and philosopher, once offered a timeless piece of wisdom: “Do not let your happiness depend on something you may lose.” These words are a wake-up call, a reminder to anchor our joy in something deeper, something unshakable.

The Fragility of External Happiness

It’s human nature to seek happiness in external things. We tie our emotions to outcomes, people, and possessions because they give us a quick hit of dopamine. But here’s the catch: everything external is temporary. Jobs change, relationships evolve, and material possessions wear out. When we base our happiness on these fleeting things, we set ourselves up for a rollercoaster of emotions—elation one moment, despair the next.

Lewis’s quote challenges us to rethink this approach. If our happiness is tied to something we can lose, then we’re essentially handing over control of our emotional well-being to the unpredictable whims of life. And let’s be honest, life doesn’t always play fair.

The Power of Inner Joy

So, if we shouldn’t depend on external things for happiness, where should we look? The answer lies within. Inner joy—the kind that doesn’t waver with circumstances—comes from a deeper place. It’s rooted in our values, our sense of purpose, and our ability to find meaning even in the midst of challenges.

Think of it like this: external happiness is like building a house on sand. It might look sturdy for a while, but when the storms come, it won’t hold up. Inner joy, on the other hand, is like building a house on solid rock. It’s unshakable, no matter what life throws at us.

How to Cultivate Inner Joy

  1. Practice Gratitude for the Present Moment
    Instead of chasing the next big thing, take a moment to appreciate what you already have. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s abundant in your life. It’s a simple but powerful way to find joy in the here and now.
  2. Invest in Relationships, Not Outcomes
    While relationships can bring us happiness, it’s important to love people for who they are, not for what they can do for us. True connection is about presence, not possession.
  3. Find Meaning in the Journey
    Life isn’t about reaching a destination; it’s about the journey. When we focus on growth, learning, and the process rather than the end result, we free ourselves from the pressure of needing everything to go perfectly.
  4. Embrace Impermanence
    Everything in life is temporary—both the good and the bad. When we accept this truth, we can enjoy the good moments without clinging to them and navigate the tough moments without being crushed by them.
  5. Connect with Something Greater
    For some, this might mean spirituality or faith. For others, it could be a connection to nature, art, or a cause bigger than themselves. When we align with something greater, we tap into a source of joy that transcends our individual circumstances.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of chasing external validation. Social media, consumer culture, and societal pressures constantly tell us that happiness is just one purchase, one achievement, or one milestone away. But Lewis’s wisdom reminds us that this is a mirage. True happiness isn’t something we can buy, earn, or borrow—it’s something we cultivate within ourselves.

The Freedom of Letting Go

C.S. Lewis’s quote isn’t just about happiness; it’s about freedom. When we stop tying our joy to things we might lose, we free ourselves from the fear of loss. We learn to live more fully, more authentically, and more courageously. We discover that happiness isn’t something we need to chase—it’s something we can choose, moment by moment, no matter what life brings.

So, the next time you find yourself depending on something external for your happiness, pause and ask yourself: Is this something I could lose? If the answer is yes, take a deep breath and remind yourself that your joy doesn’t have to hang by a thread. It can be as steady and unshakable as you choose to make it.

After all, as Lewis so wisely pointed out, the best kind of happiness is the kind that no one—and nothing—can take away from you.

It’s Not What’s Under the Tree That’s Important, but Those Around It

As the year winds down and festive lights fill the air with warmth, it’s easy to be swept up in the hustle of gift-giving. Boxes wrapped in glittering paper and tied with ribbons often seem like the centerpiece of Christmas. But the true magic of the season doesn’t come from what lies under the tree—it comes from the people who gather around it.

The gifts we exchange may bring momentary joy, but it’s the laughter, love, and shared moments that leave a lasting impact. It’s in the conversations that flow over warm cups of cocoa, the hands joined in prayer, and the spontaneous bursts of joy during a family game. These are the treasures that no price tag can define.

As we celebrate, let’s pause to appreciate the presence of loved ones. Whether it’s family, friends, or even newfound connections, they are the reason the season feels whole. The beauty of Christmas lies not in material things but in the bonds that unite us, the traditions that root us, and the memories that weave us closer.

So this year, let’s cherish not what’s under the tree, but who’s around it. For in the end, it’s the people in our lives who make the season bright.

Carols with a Twist

Christmas carols have long been a beloved part of the holiday season, evoking memories of joy, togetherness, and the timeless message of hope. But what if these cherished melodies could be reimagined with a fresh perspective? “Carols with a Twist” explores how traditional carols with a message for today’s world. These have been put together by the Archdiocese of Bombay.

The 7 Brutal Rules of Work (and How to Win)

Navigating the modern workplace can feel like walking a tightrope—balancing expectations, managing relationships, and delivering results, all while staying true to your personal goals. But the truth is, success at work often hinges on understanding and mastering a few unspoken yet critical rules. These aren’t written in any handbook, yet they shape careers, define opportunities, and separate winners from the rest.

I came across these 7 brutal rules of work by Mostyn Wilson on LinkedIn. Pretty sure if you master these, you’ll be equipped to turn challenges into opportunities and obstacles into stepping stones toward your success.

Thanksgiving Quotes!

Gratitude is the heart’s response to God’s blessings. As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the wisdom of the saints who lived lives of profound thankfulness. Their words inspire us to see the hand of God in every joy, trial, and blessing. I came across this post on churchpop’s instagram profile. Explore timeless quotes from saints that remind us of the beauty of a grateful heart.

Celebrate the Climb: You Deserve to Be Proud of How Far You’ve Come

It’s easy to focus on how much further you want to go, but take a moment to look back at the distance you’ve already covered. A year ago, you were in a different place, facing different challenges, and likely dealing with uncertainties that you’ve now overcome. You’ve grown, adapted, and learned—and that deserves celebration.

Think of the things you once thought you couldn’t handle but did. Or the small changes you made that seemed insignificant then but have added up to major progress now. Those quiet victories, the resilience you built, and the courage you showed in tough moments have shaped the person you are today.

It’s easy to overlook your own growth, especially when you’re constantly reaching for more. But true progress isn’t just about milestones; it’s about the journey, the effort, and the determination it takes to keep moving forward. Be proud of yourself—not because you’ve reached a final destination, but because you’ve grown from where you were.

So, pause for a moment. Celebrate your climb. You’re on a unique journey, and today you’re a stronger, wiser version of yourself than you were last year. That alone is something to be deeply proud of. Keep going—you’re building something amazing, one step at a time.

True Maturity: Embracing Life’s Weight with Kindness

True maturity is more than simply growing older—it’s about learning to carry life’s heaviness with grace and kindness. Life inevitably brings its share of difficulties, from personal struggles to the disappointments of others, and maturity lies in facing these challenges without letting them harden our hearts.

Embracing heaviness requires resilience. It means acknowledging pain and disappointment without being consumed by them. Mature people don’t shy away from life’s burdens; they face them honestly, allowing themselves to feel and process emotions. But true maturity also involves choosing kindness—toward oneself and others—even when it’s difficult.

To embrace heaviness with kindness, start by being gentle with yourself. Recognize your limits and give yourself permission to feel the full range of emotions without judgment. Treat yourself as you would a dear friend. This self-kindness not only restores your emotional energy but also enables you to extend the same compassion to others. When you understand your own struggles, it becomes easier to see others’ hardships with empathy.

True maturity isn’t about always having the answers or never feeling overwhelmed; it’s about balancing life’s weight with compassion. By being kind, both inwardly and outwardly, you create a space where you and others can feel supported, valued, and understood—no matter how heavy life feels.

Choosing Faith: Looking Up When Life Gets Tough

Came across this powerful saying on Instagram, “Regrets look back, fear looks around, worry looks in, faith looks up.” Each phrase here is a reminder of where we often find ourselves and where we should aim to go.

When we focus on regrets, we’re trapped in the past, reliving moments we can’t change. Regret can teach us valuable lessons, but if we linger too long, it holds us back, keeping us from embracing the present.

Fear, on the other hand, is often about everything happening around us—the “what ifs” of the future. Fearful thoughts distract us with worries about what might go wrong or how others may perceive us. Fear is paralyzing; it limits us from taking bold steps forward.

Then, there’s worry, which looks inward. Worry is a cycle of self-doubt and questioning, eroding our confidence and making us feel small. Worry can feel endless, making us overthink every decision and undervalue ourselves.

But faith looks up. Faith is a way of trusting in something greater than ourselves, a source of strength beyond what we can see or control. Faith lifts us out of regret, fear, and worry, helping us focus on possibilities rather than limitations. When we choose faith, we see the bigger picture and feel empowered to live with hope and purpose.

So, when you feel overwhelmed by regrets, fears, or worries, remember this: look up. Let faith guide you, knowing that each step forward brings new chances to grow, to learn, and to become more resilient. Faith is not just a belief—it’s a decision to keep moving forward, trusting that you’re never alone on your journey.

No Matter What You Do, Someone Will Talk About You

One of life’s undeniable truths is that no matter what you do, people will have something to say. You can be doing your best, reaching milestones, or just trying to live authentically—and still, someone will judge, question, or doubt you. It’s part of being human and part of living in a world where people see things from their own perspectives.

Imagine an artist pouring their heart and soul into a painting. For some, it’s a masterpiece; for others, it’s “not their style.” Similarly, think of a person who takes a bold career step or chooses a unique path in life. While some may be inspired, others may criticize or doubt their motives. This isn’t a reflection of the person in the spotlight but of those watching from the sidelines.

It’s essential to remember that judgment from others often has more to do with them than with you. People may criticize out of envy, misunderstanding, or simply from their own insecurities. Their doubts and judgments don’t define you—your actions, integrity, and courage do.

So, when doubts and judgments arise, keep your focus on what matters to you. Let your path reflect your values, goals, and passion. When you’re true to yourself, you’ll attract people who understand, appreciate, and respect you. And for those who talk? Let them. Living authentically is the best response you can give.