What are your questions or takeaways from this bible study on how unnecessary events in life may be necessary for us to understand all of who God is and what he's able to do.

LENT DAY 1 – Ash Wednesday From Thorns to Thrones: Marked by Mercy Main Scripture Psalm 51:17 (ESV) “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” Bible Teaching & Lent Connection Ash Wednesday invites us into repentance, not humiliation. Your manuscript emphasizes that ashes represent confession and appreciation for grace. God is not looking for perfection — He is looking for surrender.Lent begins with a heart posture, not a performance. Ashes say: - I acknowledge my need - I receive God’s mercy - I begin again Short Story / Testimonial A father and son had not spoken in years. Pride built walls neither would tear down. One day, the father mailed a simple note: “I’m sorry.” No excuses. No explanations. The son called that night. Healing began with humility. Black History Connection – Richard Allen Founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. Connection:After facing racial discrimination in a Methodist congregation, Allen didn’t abandon faith — he built a church rooted in dignity and repentance before God. Lesson:Humility before God empowers dignity before people. Closing Prayer Lord, create in me a contrite heart.Mark me with mercy, not shame. As I begin Lent, I surrender fully to Your grace. Amen. BE FREE TODAY: COMMENT BELOW Today I will start Lent by fasting from _____________________. Share with us below what you will be fasting from if it's not too personal.

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.

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?

Hello everyone, my name is Tracey and I’m joining from Hampton, VA. I’m currently on a journey to grow in my faith, and finding my purpose. Right now, I’m hoping to gain more bible knowledge through a better understanding of understanding Scripture. I joined Better Life Academy because I know that God has more for me to do in the body of Christ, but it requires my willingness to grow spiritually and learn more about Him, and I’m grateful to be learning alongside others who are committed to growing in Christ. One fun fact about me is I enjoy thrifting.