Lent is traditionally a time of sacrifice and abstention.
But what if we chose not just to give up, but to give differently?
This Lent, think about the power of transformation. Just as Christ transformed the way we understand and know God, we are called to transform every day. During Lent, we transform our daily lives by introducing sacrifice to better ourselves.
In Lent, we can look at turning everyday elements of our lives into profound opportunities for spiritual growth. From the music we listen to, to the way we engage with social media – each can be a pathway to deepen your faith and connect more meaningfully with the divine and those around you.
Here’s a guide on how to use what you might typically give up for Lent as tools for spiritual enrichment instead. If what you were planning on giving up for Lent is on this list, check out our list of 20 Unique Things to Give Up for Lent for alternative ideas!
1. Music
Why you shouldn’t give it up: Worship music can become a form of prayer, uplifting your soul and drawing you closer to God during the day. Hymns, Christian contemporary, or meditative instrumental music create space for reflection and praise.
Instead of giving up music entirely, use Lent to refine your playlist by listening to music that glorifies God.
Pro tip: Struggle to get up in the morning without your upbeat morning playlist? Or want to get in the mood to get creative? Swap out any songs that may feature irreverent themes and replace them with some more sacred alternatives. Artists like Forrest Frank and for King & Country are great for those upbeat tunes you may need in your life.
2. Podcasts
Why you shouldn’t give it up: Podcasts are a great way to fill up empty time. Faith-based podcasts like The Bible in a Year or Pints with Aquinas deepen your understanding of Scripture, theology, and how to live your faith. They can inspire and educate, even during your daily commute or chores.
3. Sweets or Snacks
Why you shouldn’t give it up: While we may not want to admit it, some of us may want to choose this one to either curb our sugar intake or lose weight. Sacrifice should be rooted in a desire for spiritual growth, not self-improvement alone.
Instead of cutting these treats out, commit to practicing moderation, rather than total avoidance. This allows you to even out your enjoyment of things, like a small treat, and show gratitude to God for these things.
4. TV or Movies
Why you shouldn’t give it up: Faith-filled shows or movies, like The Chosen or Catholic documentaries like Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story, can inspire prayer, deepen faith, and spark family conversations. So swap out your regulars for meaningful programs like these.
5. Coffee or Tea
Why you shouldn’t give it up: Unless you find yourself really dependent on caffeine, your morning beverage can become an intentional prayer moment—starting your day with gratitude or Scripture as you sip. It’s not the drink itself but how you use the moment that matters. It can also be a great way to evangelize – coffee Bible studies, group meetings – you get the picture!
6. Social Media
Why you shouldn’t give it up: Social media can be a tool for evangelization and inspiration if used intentionally. Following accounts like Ascension Press or even humor-based Catholic accounts, or FOCUS, can make your scroll time spiritually uplifting and reflective.
So, instead of deleting apps, unfollow distractions and focus on content that draws you closer to God.
7. Social Events
Why you shouldn’t give it up: Some people like to look at the way they use their time and cut out time that is spent not doing productive or holy things.
Lent focuses on deepening our communion with God and others. Using your time to participate in small groups, Bible studies, or informal gatherings that include faith discussions are things everyone should dedicate time to during Lent.
But what about social events not explicitly centered on faith? No worries—Lent is an ideal time for evangelization. Rather than avoiding social interactions that aren’t directly devoted to God, use each one as a chance to demonstrate Christ’s love and share the Good News.
Additional Resources
Now that we’ve gone over things you shouldn’t give up for Lent, check out some unique things to give up for Lent this year.
This Lent, remember to use FOCUS resources to aid in your Lenten journey. From confession guides to our Crux Lenten Bible Study, we’ve got everything you need.
Check out our prayer guides to aid you this Lent: The Divine Mercy, The Rosary, Lectio Divina, Consecration to St. Joseph, and intercessory prayer.
Get prepared for Lent by watching this video:
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