COMMENT BELOW ... WHAT DOES MAKING SPACE FOR GOD MEAN TO YOU? Making Space Scripture – Psalm 46:10 (ESV) “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Word for the Day: Stillness Practical Teaching Before Lent begins, we must slow down. Lent is not something we rush into — it is something we enter. Stillness is the doorway to depth. If we never pause, we cannot hear. Jeremiah 33:3 Connection God promises to reveal “great and hidden things.” Hidden things require quiet spaces. Stillness prepares the ear for revelation. Going Beyond Tip Schedule 10 uninterrupted minutes today with no phone, no music — just silence before God. Black History Spotlight – Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays Who He Was:Dr. Benjamin E. Mays was a theologian, educator, and longtime president of Morehouse College. He mentored generations of leaders — including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Lesser-Known Fact:Before becoming a prominent educator, Mays spent years in disciplined theological study and spiritual formation. He was known for beginning each school year with deep spiritual reflection and moral vision-setting, not hype. His leadership was rooted in contemplation before action. He once said: “Not failure, but low aim is sin.” Why He Fits Day 1 (Stillness):Mays believed clarity comes from reflection. He understood that leaders must think deeply before moving publicly. Stillness shaped his vision. Prayer Lord, quiet my heart. Teach me to be still before You. Prepare me for deeper places as Lent approaches. Amen.

PRE-LENT DAY 4 – Thursday, Feb 12 Surrendering Control Scripture – Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV) Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Word: Surrender Practical Teaching Lent invites release of control. We trust God with appetite, schedule, and security. Jeremiah 33:3 Connection Calling on God means trusting His answers more than our plans. Black History Spotlight – Bayard Rustin Architect of the 1963 March on Washington.Lesser-known fact: Rustin operated behind the scenes because of political controversy around his identity. Connection: Surrendering recognition for greater purpose. Going Beyond Tip Release one outcome you’ve been trying to control. Prayer I surrender my plans to You, Lord. Lead me beyond my understanding. Amen. IN WHAT AREAS DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAD TO HAVWE CONTROL THAT YOU ARE WILLING TO LET GO OF? Comment then below.

PRE-LENT DAY 3 – Wednesday, Feb 11 Choosing Discipline Scripture – 1 Corinthians 9:27 (ESV) But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. Word: Discipline Practical Teaching Pre-Lent builds spiritual muscle. We practice restraint before full sacrifice. Jeremiah 33:3 Connection Revelation flows to disciplined seekers. Black History Spotlight – Wilma Rudolph Olympic gold medalist who overcame childhood polio.Lesser-known fact: Doctors said she would never walk again. Her discipline defied diagnosis. Connection: Discipline transforms limitation into victory. Going Beyond Tip Start a small spiritual discipline now — don’t wait for Lent. Prayer Lord, strengthen my discipline. Help me train my spirit for deeper devotion. Amen.

PRE-LENT DAY 2 – Tuesday, Feb 10 Examining the Heart Scripture – Psalm 139:23–24 (ESV) Search me, O God, and know my heart!Try me and know my thoughts!And see if there be any grievous way in me,and lead me in the way everlasting! Word: Reflection Practical Teaching Lent is not behavior modification — it is heart examination. Jeremiah 33:3 Connection When we call on God, He reveals hidden areas — even the ones within us. Black History Spotlight – Ella Baker Strategist behind the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).Lesser-known fact: She intentionally rejected celebrity leadership and believed in grassroots empowerment. Connection: Reflection keeps ego in check. Going Beyond Tip Ask God to reveal one attitude that needs reshaping before Lent begins. Prayer Search me, Lord. Reveal what I cannot see in myself. Refine me before You. Amen. HOW DID YOU RESPOND TO THIS CHALLENGE TO EXAMINE YOUR HEART? Honest answers in the comment

Scripture: Psalm 35:13 Word for the Day: Humility Biblical Background: David humbled himself through fasting and prayer during difficult seasons. Practical Meaning: Humility invites God’s intervention and grace. Going Beyond Tip: Lay aside pride and approach God honestly today. Daily Prayer: Father, I humble myself before You. Teach me to depend fully on Your strength. Shape my heart to reflect Your humility. Amen. ARE THERE AREAS OF LIFE THST YOU COULD BE MORE HIMBLE IN?