Lent is a season of soul-searching, repentance, and renewal that helps us prepare our hearts for the celebration of Jesus’ death and resurrection. During Lent, many believers lean into prayer, Scripture, and fasting—not to “prove” anything to God, but to make more room for Him. In this post, you’ll learn what Lent is, when it happens, what people do during Lent, how to practice Lent in our own lives, and where we see these practices in the Bible.
Now let’s start with a common question many people ask each year: When is Lent?
WHEN IS LENT?
In 2026, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (February 18, 2026) and leads to Easter Sunday (April 5, 2026). Lent is often described as 40 days because it echoes two important biblical patterns: the Israelites’ wilderness journey and Jesus’ time of fasting in the wilderness.
The 40 days remind us of Israel’s wilderness wanderings after the Exodus (Numbers 33:38; Deuteronomy 1:3) and Jesus’ temptation after He fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:1–11; Mark 1:12–13; Luke 4:1–13). Lent is observed during the days between Ash Wednesday and Good Friday (Sundays are traditionally not counted as fast days).
WHAT DO PEOPLE DO DURING LENT?
1. Some people fast during the 40 days. When we fast or give something up for those days, the idea is that we are to replace that thing we are giving up for more time spent with the Lord. This teaches us to be more dependent on the Lord. To have a deeper intimacy with him. And to humbly repent from sin and recognize our need for a savior.
When people think of fasting they think of going without food. But fasting can really be anything that you give up for an extended period of time.
Here are some examples:
Food (sweets, soda, snacks)
Media (social media, TV, streaming)
Spending (coffee runs, impulse buys)
Comfort (complaining, sarcasm, staying busy)
If you’d like a simple daily structure to stay consistent through the season, my Prepare Your Heart 40 Day Lent Prayer Cards include a Scripture reference, reflection prompt, and short prayer for each day of Lent.
When I waitressed at the restaurant my parents owned we would have this one customer that I remember would come in every day during Lent and would ask us not to put any meat on her plate. She wanted to eat something else because she said she was fasting from meat for Lent. Some traditions abstain from meat on certain days during Lent (especially Fridays).
2. Some people just pray and read the bible more. For example, instead of eating a meal, they would read the bible. Or instead of watching tv, they would pray.
3. Then there are others that will go to an Ash Wednesday service along with the holy week worship service at their local church.
If you can’t make every service (or want something to use at home), my Prepare Your Heart Holy Week Reading Plan is a simple 4-page printable that guides you from Palm Sunday through Easter with Scripture, reflection questions, and prayer prompts.
4. Some people practice giving and serving (almsgiving).
Lent isn’t only about what we give up—it’s also about what we give away. Many believers use this season to practice generosity, serve others quietly, and love in practical ways as a reflection of Christ.
HOW TO PRACTICE LENT (WITHOUT OVERWHELM)
If Lent feels intimidating, keep it simple. A gentle plan is often the most sustainable one:
Choose one fast (something to give up)
Choose one practice (something to take on)
Choose one focus (a weekly heart theme: surrender, repentance, prayer, etc.)
Start small: even 10 minutes a day consistently can change your heart over time.
WHERE DO WE SEE LENT IN THE BIBLE?
Even though Lent as a named season isn’t commanded in Scripture, the practices we associate with Lent are deeply biblical. The Bible repeatedly calls us to fasting with the right heart, repentance that leads to life, and confidence in God’s forgiveness.
Fasting –
Matthew 6: 16-18 - "And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your father, who knows what you do in private. And your father, who sees everything, will reward you."
Joel 2: 12-13 - "That is why the Lord says, "Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead." Return to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to anger and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish."
Repenting –
Mark 1: 15 - "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good news!"
God’s Forgiveness –
Isaiah 43: 25 - "I yes, I alone, will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again."
CONCLUSION
So in conclusion, Lent can be a meaningful season for anyone who wants to deepen their relationship with the Lord, practice self-control, and recognize their need for a Savior. We don’t have to participate in Lent to have a closer walk with God—but it can be a beautiful time to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection with fresh gratitude.
P.S. #1 If you want a simple Holy Week guide you can print today, my Prepare Your Heart Holy Week Reading Plan includes daily Scripture readings, reflection questions, and prayer prompts (Palm Sunday → Easter).
P.S. #2 Want daily Lent prompts too? Pair it with my Prepare Your Heart 40 Prayer Cards for a simple day-by-day rhythm throughout the season.
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