The traditional purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer through prayer and self-denial, by the means of giving up something that is dear. While many people are giving up cow’s meat, carbs, or caffeine, here are a few suggestions that might prove more beneficial:

“New year's day always brings about a grand sense of renewed hope and optimism but is rarely met with consistent discipline.”

Generation X, millennials, and the emerging generations are all about passion. However, I want to make sure that we understand the parameters of our passion. We have to be careful in this, "do what makes you happy" world, so here are 5 things you should consider as you are pursuing your passion:

Time is not your enemy. While you see others moving in their respective gifts, operating in their callings and walking in their own greatness, don’t rush. Be patient. It is never too late to become great.

… real-life distractions are imposed on us, to rob us of our focus and keep us fixated on trivial things. If we engage too often or for too long, we can miss the crucial collisions of destiny and opportunity.

God has designed us to be masters of our own minds, but overthinkers routinely bow to the power of the mind. Thus allowing the process to hinder progress.

The temperature doesn’t determine the season; because regardless of how it feels, the calendar shows that you’ve made progress. It may be cold as winter, but your position says springtime.