When Lent Feels Hard: Finding Strength in Jesus’ Desert Journey

Lent is meant to be a time of renewal—a season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that brings us closer to God. It’s a sacred invitation to deepen our faith, step away from distractions, and prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter. But let’s be honest: sometimes, Lent feels really hard.

Maybe you gave up something that has become harder to resist than you expected. Maybe your prayer life feels dry or distant. Maybe life’s responsibilities are overwhelming, making it hard to stay focused. Or maybe you started Lent with enthusiasm, only to find yourself struggling to keep up with the commitments you made.

If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. And you’re not without hope.

Jesus Knows the Desert

When Lent feels overwhelming, we can look to Jesus’ own 40-day journey in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). After His baptism, the Holy Spirit led Him into the desert, where He fasted, prayed, and faced temptation. He experienced hunger, exhaustion, and solitude. The devil tempted Him three times, offering shortcuts to power, comfort, and glory.

And yet, through every trial, Jesus remained faithful. He resisted temptation not by relying on His own strength, but by turning to the Word of God and the will of the Father.

Jesus understands our struggles because He endured them Himself. When we feel weak, He reminds us that we don’t have to rely on our own strength—we can lean on His.

Finding Strength in the Desert

So how do we find strength when Lent feels difficult? How do we continue when we feel like we’re failing?

Turn to Scripture

Just as Jesus responded to temptation with the Word of God, we, too, can find strength in Scripture. The Bible reminds us of God’s faithfulness, His promises, and His never-ending love for us.

Some verses to meditate on when Lent feels hard:

• “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

• “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

• “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28

When you’re struggling, let God’s Word be your anchor.

Pray Through the Struggle

Prayer doesn’t have to be perfect. If you feel distant, distracted, or discouraged, simply talk to Jesus about it. He already knows what’s on your heart, and He welcomes your honesty.

Consider praying:

• Lord, I’m struggling to stay focused this Lent. Give me the grace to keep going.

• Jesus, I offer this challenge to You. Strengthen me when I feel weak.

• Holy Spirit, guide me and help me surrender my plans for Yours.

Even short, simple prayers can reconnect us with God in powerful ways.

Refocus on the Purpose

Lent isn’t about perfection; it’s about transformation. If you’ve stumbled in your Lenten commitments, don’t be discouraged. Start again. If you’re struggling, offer it to God. He sees your efforts and delights in your desire to grow.

This season is meant to draw us closer to Christ, and sometimes, that closeness comes through recognizing our own need for Him.

Lean on Christ’s Strength, Not Your Own

The desert wasn’t easy for Jesus, and it won’t always be easy for us. But He didn’t walk through it alone—He was led by the Holy Spirit, strengthened by the Father, and rooted in truth.

We, too, are not alone. When Lent feels hard, we can call on God’s grace. When we feel weary, we can rest in His presence. Our strength will fail at times, but His never does.

The Promise Beyond the Wilderness

The desert is not the end of the story. After 40 days, Jesus emerged from the wilderness and began His public ministry, proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Likewise, our Lenten sacrifices are preparing us for something greater—the joy of the Resurrection.

So if Lent feels hard right now, take heart. Jesus walks this journey with you. When you feel weak, turn to Him. When you feel discouraged, remember His victory. The desert may be difficult, but it leads to something far greater—new life in Christ.

How has your Lenten journey been so far? What has helped you stay close to Jesus in the difficult moments? Let’s encourage one another as we walk this path of faith.