1. Lent lasts for 40 days, representing the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/lent/about-lent.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqYQ9dpneqHH1sNPrZFVUsrCeqO1scCxXUNOERbTMLNgZP7nKFJ
2. Lent falls on different dates each year, and its observance varies among Christians worldwide.
3. Not all Christians observe lent. Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and some Protestants observe it.
4. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, a day of repentance and reflection.
5. On Ash Wednesday, ashes are placed on foreheads as a sign of humility and mortality.
6. Lent is a time for fasting, prayer, and almsgiving.
7. Sundays are not counted in the 40 days of Lent.
8. Lent is a period of preparation for celebrating the Lord’s Resurrection at Easter.
9. Lent ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday.
10. The colours used during Lent enrich the spiritual experience by evoking emotions and serving as visual reminders of Jesus’ suffering, sacrifice, and ultimate victory over death—especially during Holy Week.
11. Purple is the primary colour of Lent; it also represents the purple robe that Pontius Pilate placed on Jesus before His crucifixion, reminding us of His royalty as King.
12. On Palm Sunday, the priest wears bright red, symbolising Jesus’ impending sacrifice on the Cross.
13. White, used on Easter, represents the joy of Jesus’ resurrection.
14. Meat is traditionally avoided on Fridays during Lent.https://www.catholic.com/tract/top-20-questions-and-answers-about-lent
15. Lenten fasting is meant to promote spiritual discipline, not to serve as a dieting method.
16. Giving up something for Lent is a form of sacrifice and self-denial.
17. Lent is a time to reflect on Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice.
18. Prayer is emphasized during Lent as a way to strengthen one’s relationship with God.
19. Almsgiving (charity) is encouraged during Lent, with a focus on helping the needy.
20. Lent is a call to repentance and turning back to God.
21. Confession and reconciliation are important aspects of Lenten observance.
22. Mothering Sunday falls during Lent—specifically on the fourth Sunday—and is also known as Laetare Sunday.
23. The Stations of the Cross are often prayed during Lent.
24. Holy Monday (sometimes referred to in some programs as the “Monday Day Program”) is part of the week leading up to Easter.
25. The final week of Lent, known as Holy Week, includes significant days such as Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday.
26. Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week.
27. Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus and His disciples.
28. Maundy Thursday also recalls the washing of the feet, symbolising service and humility.
29. Good Friday commemorates Jesus’ crucifixion and death.
30. Holy Saturday is a day of waiting and reflection before Easter.
31. Easter Sunday celebrates Jesus’ resurrection and marks the end of Lent.
32. Lent is not just about personal sacrifice; it is also an opportunity for spiritual growth.
33. Giving up bad habits during Lent can lead to lasting positive change.
34. Some churches hold Lenten retreats or special services to deepen spiritual focus.
35. Lent is a time for personal and spiritual renewal.
36. Some Christians follow the Daniel Fast during Lent, eating only plant-based foods.
37. Lent reminds us that suffering can lead to glory, just as the cross led to the resurrection.
38. Although Lent is a period of penance, it ultimately ends with a great celebration.
39. Fasting during Lent reminds us of our dependence on God.
40. The liturgies of Holy Week—including the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday—are among the most significant in the Church calendar.

The post 40 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LENT. first appeared on ArtPreachiate.

The post 40 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LENT. appeared first on ArtPreachiate.

You claim to love someone, yet your words leave scars,
Love shouldn’t hurt like shattered stars.
You promise forever, yet treat them like a phase,
Love isn’t fleeting; it stands through the days.

You claim to love someone, yet your hands push away,
Love isn’t silence when there’s more to say.
You vow to listen, yet ignore their cries,
Love is attention, not convenient lies.

You claim to love someone, yet your eyes still roam,
Love stays rooted; it doesn’t search for home.
You swear they’re enough, yet you crave something new,
Love isn’t restless; it stays loyal and true.

You claim to love someone, yet trust wears thin,
Love isn’t real when deceit creeps in.
You speak of patience but demand too much,
Love doesn’t rush; it moves with a touch.

You claim to love someone, yet your presence is rare,
Love doesn’t vanish; it’s always there.
You say you protect, yet leave them exposed,
Love isn’t careless; it guards and holds.

You claim to love someone, yet let wounds remain,
Love doesn’t nurture unnecessary pain.
You swear you cherish, yet take them for granted,
Love isn’t selfish; it gives what is wanted.

You claim to love someone, yet flee when it’s tough,
Love isn’t easy, but real love is enough.
You call them home, yet wander away,
Love doesn’t falter when skies turn gray.

You claim to love someone, yet let them feel small,
Love lifts higher, it won’t let them fall.
You promise honesty, yet truths stay untold,
Love is transparent, not secrets grown cold.

You claim to love someone, yet your love feels cold,
Love isn’t distant; it’s warm to hold.
You whisper sweet words, yet actions betray,
Love isn’t fleeting; it chooses to stay.

You promise a future, yet leave them in doubt,
Love isn’t silence; it speaks things out.
You swear devotion, yet turn away,
Love doesn’t waver; it finds a way.

God is love only in HIM we can exhibit true love. https://sctcoc.org/love-is-the-greatest-christian-blog/

By Omolola F. Edokpayi

The post DOES YOUR LOVE TRULY SHOW? first appeared on ArtPreachiate.

The post DOES YOUR LOVE TRULY SHOW? appeared first on ArtPreachiate.

Let love be more than lips proclaim,
Let actions spark its holy flame.
For love is a verb, alive and free—
Where there is love, there is liberty.
Let love be Christ at work in you.

LOVE IS ALSO A NOUN

A noun is the name of a person, place, animal, or thing.
As a noun, love moves, gives, kneels, and stays.
It lives in truth and draws in countless ways.

Love chooses to love even when it is hard,
Forgives when it hurts,
And gives without expecting in return.

Love, as a hand, wipes away tears;
It does not seek to draw a sword.
Stretches out to feed the poor and needy,
Lifting the weak and weary.

Love turns the other cheek—
A truth many do not want to hear.
It bends to make peace,
Even for heaven’s sake.

THE NATURE OF LOVE

As the Scriptures says in 1 Corinthians 13,
Love is patient, love is kind,
It does not boast, it does not break, (It does not go on holiday).https://sctcoc.org/love-is-the-greatest-christian-blog/

Love is Jesus on the cross,
Dying there for you and me.
Not mere words, but wounds and pain,
What a great love poured out like heavy rain.

So let us love in deed and truth.
For faith and hope may light the way,
But love alone will always stay.

HOW IS LOVE A VERB?

Love requires action, not just words or feelings. True love is demonstrated through what we do, not just what we say. In the Bible, love is often shown as an active choice—giving, forgiving, serving, and sacrificing.

Scriptures on Love in Action:

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son” (Love gave).https://www.blogsbychristianwomen.com/greatest-love/

https://www.dawnklinge.com/abovethewaves/tag/God%27s+love

1 John 3:18 – “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (Love acts).

John 13:1-17 – Jesus demonstrated love by washing the disciples’ feet. (Love serves).

Luke 10:25-37 – The Good Samaritan helped a stranger in need. (Love helps).

In short, love is not just something you feel, it is something you do.https://artpreachiate.com/2021/04/06/quotes-on-love-series-1/

Love is a verb, which is an action word.
Do not just say it, act it.

Writing and illustrated by Omolola F. Edokpayi

The post IS LOVE A VERB? first appeared on ArtPreachiate.

The post IS LOVE A VERB? appeared first on ArtPreachiate.

As we step into this new year, let us recognize that it is not just a calendar shift but a divine invitation to something greater. The year is loaded with four major things, that are all part of God’s perfect plan for us. Each of these elements plays a vital role in shaping our journey and drawing us closer to God’s perfect plan. Let’s uncover these four treasures together and learn how to embrace them with unwavering faith.

1. OPPORTUNITIES

The year is loaded with countless opportunities. Whether in your career, ministry, relationship or personal journey. Opportunities will arise, but they are reserved for those who are prepared and ready to embrace them. Preparation is crucial because these opportunities can come at any time. It may come early, mid-year, or even as late as December. You know what will happen if you lack the necessary skills, wisdom, or qualifications to seize them? To avoid missing out, start preparing now. Whether it’s acquiring a certificate, learning a new skill, or growing personally, take action today.
Some opportunities do not require elaborate preparations. Sometimes, it’s simply about cultivating discipline, gaining a basic skill, or devoting time to prayer. Prayer can be transformative, opening doors you never imagined. Praying for divine guidance or connections can lead you to individuals or networks that will help shape your future. The beauty of divine timing is that the people who will influence your life may not yet be in your life, but you could meet them this year and their impact could be profound.
Opportunities often present themselves in unexpected ways. A minor change could lead to a breakthrough. For instance, relocation or a new career path may feel daunting at the start of the year, but with intentional preparation, prayer, and the right people, by the end of the year, you could find yourself in a much better place.

2. BLESSING

The year is loaded with blessings. Every day is a gift from God, and this year is not exempted. Expect God’s favour to rest upon you in unexpected ways, whether through answered prayers, restored relationships, new beginnings, or financial provision. His blessings extend beyond material wealth, they also include peace, joy, wisdom, and His abiding presence.
Stay anchored in His love and embrace these blessings with a heart full of gratitude. Recognizing and accepting them sets a positive tone for the year. https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-life/discover-the-million-little-miracles-hidden-in-your-everyday-life.html

James 1:17 reminds us that every perfect gift comes from above.

3. LESSONS

The year ahead is filled with experiences, both good and challenging. These experiences will offer valuable lessons and It is essential to remain open to learning. Each encounter, whether pleasant or difficult, holds the potential to shape you for the future.
Be attentive to what life is teaching you. Be open to lessons because people and events that cross your path this year will teach you something. Every experience is an opportunity for growth. Proverbs 1:5 tells us, “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.”

4. CHALLENGES

The year is loaded with challenges. I know many people will not like this. Challenges are inevitable but serve an important purpose. They often refine us, strengthen our faith, and push us to depend on God more fully. James 1:2-4 reminds us to embrace trials with joy, for they produce perseverance and maturity.
In the face of challenges, God will strengthen your faith and build resilience. Just as gold is refined through fire, you will emerge stronger and more refined. https://www.christianity.com/videos/video-answers/thriving-in-the-midst-of-trials.html Embrace each challenge knowing that God is using it to grow you and bring you closer to Him.
Growth often requires discomfort, and this year may stretch you in ways you didn’t anticipate. While this path of growth may be uncomfortable, it is necessary. Through personal reflection, spiritual disciplines, and new experiences, expect to evolve and mature. Trust that God is using each moment to prepare you for the next.
Moreover, God is ready to equip you with everything you need to thrive. Strength for trials, wisdom for decisions, and peace to guide you. His faithfulness is unchanging, and His presence is constant. As we walk in His will, we can rest assured that He will never leave us nor forsake us.

In Conclusion, as we enter this new year, let us embrace the opportunities, recognize God’s blessings, learn from every experience, and face the challenges with unwavering faith. If we trust God and lean on His Word, we can navigate the year with purpose, gratitude, and assurance. Stay prepared, pray diligently https://www.oshawkins.com/sermons/new-years-day-crossing-over…into-a-new-year/, and remain faithful. This year is filled with possibilities, and how you respond will shape your journey toward a successful fulfilment.

Written and illustrated by Omolola F. Edokpayi

The post IS THE YEAR LOADED? first appeared on ArtPreachiate.

The post IS THE YEAR LOADED? appeared first on ArtPreachiate.

Yes, despite everything you’ve been through, you can still be chosen, cherished, and valued in the eyes of God. You can still be equipped to fulfil your divine purpose, and the Lord has not revoked His calling on your life. https://artpreachiate.com/2025/01/03/how-to-rediscover-your-worth-and-gods-purpose-for-your-life-1/

Yes, you can still rise above your mistakes, and walk in His grace and mercy.
Yes, you can still be a source of joy, comfort, and encouragement to your family and everyone who encounters you. Yes, you can still mentor younger women, despite everything, many ladies will still pray to live your lifestyle.
Yes, many men of valour can still pray to have you as their wife. Even though you are already married, men can still pray for their wives to be like you.
Yes, you can still be bold and confident in all your God’s will.

Yes, you can still stand firm on your ground and be a woman or lady of your word.
Yes, you can still be organized and be a role model.
Yes, you can still be desired, loved, and cared for.
Yes, you can still be the best lover, friend, and helper.
Yes, you can still be a blessing to many generations.

Yes, you can still be the best wife, the best sister-in-law, the best daughter-in-law, the best mother-in-law, the best organizer, and a role model.
Yes, you can still be someone’s bestie and prayer partner in Jesus’ name.
Yes, you can still inspire others by sharing your testimony of redemption and transformation.

https://www.bibledaily.net/articles/a-message-of-encouragement-to-the-afflicted-soul/

If you are ready to surrender to Jesus, He is ready to accept you.

Say the word below and believe it.
Thank you, Jesus, for having mercy on me, forgiving me, loving me, not giving up on me, and still believing in me. Thank you for your compassion and for showing me that my story is far from over. I am grateful for your patience, guidance, and love. Thank you for making all things new in my life.

The post HOW TO REDISCOVER YOUR WORTH AND GOD’S PURPOSE (2). first appeared on ArtPreachiate.

The post HOW TO REDISCOVER YOUR WORTH AND GOD’S PURPOSE (2). appeared first on ArtPreachiate.