Lent as the Original 40-Day Grit Challenge: Leaving the Arena for the Throne

Tyler opens the Applied Faith Podcast by noting that Ash Wednesday marked the start of Lent and challenges listeners not to treat Lent as a watered-down inconvenience or failed resolution. He frames Lent as a 40-day training ground meant to step out of cultural noise, “kill the flesh,” and create space for the spirit, describing fasting as an intentional rebellion against consumerism and instant gratification (endless scrolling, on-demand entertainment, and convenience).

He introduces the “arena and the throne” concept: the gladiator mindset seeks applause in the cultural arena, while the kingdom mindset lives before God as the only true spectator, aligning with Jesus’ teaching to fast in secret. Tyler encourages listeners to use the next 40 days for quiet, disciplined formation and presents his 40-day Kingdom Challenge, built around eight daily disciplines designed to break reliance on the world and anchor participants to the kingdom. He invites listeners to join him, follow along with the daily podcast episodes, subscribe on YouTube, and participate in the community as they pursue resilience and faith leading up to Easter.

00:00 Ash Wednesday Kickoff: Why Lent Matters Again

01:00 Lent as the Original 40-Day Grit Challenge (Not a Diet)

01:44 Fasting as Rebellion Against Consumerism & Instant Gratification

02:41 Arena vs. Throne: Gladiator Mindset vs. Kingdom Mindset

04:00 Fasting in Secret: Leaving the Applause Behind

04:45 A Practical Framework: The 40-Day Kingdom Challenge

05:49 Use the Next 40 Days to Shift Your Trajectory (Join the Challenge)

06:51 Community + Subscribe: Building Applied Faith Together

07:31 Wrap-Up: Daily Episodes, Accountability, and Eyes on the Throne

In this episode of the Applied Faith Podcast, Tyler marks the significant milestone of day 40 in the 40-day challenge. He reflects on the transformation participants have undergone, emphasizing that day 40 is not an end but a launch into a new phase of life. Drawing parallels to biblical stories, Tyler urges listeners to celebrate their achievements but remain committed to their evolved selves, resisting old habits and vices. The episode encourages participants to make a covenant with God, committing to their newfound strength and purpose. Tyler also reassures that the podcast will continue to provide guidance and support in applying faith biweekly.

00:00 The Journey of Transformation Begins

00:24 Day 40: A Milestone, Not the End

00:50 Reflecting on the 40-Day Challenge

01:33 The Significance of the Number 40

02:26 Embracing the New You

03:44 The Oath of No Return

04:32 Continuing the Mission Beyond Day 40

Day 39 of the Kingdom Challenge: Leading by Example

In this episode, Tyler emphasizes the importance of leading by example, highlighting how our actions influence those who look up to us, whether it be our children, employees, or friends. Reflecting on the Apostle Paul's words, Tyler challenges listeners to live in a way that others can emulate, stressing that our daily habits form our legacy. He encourages everyone to identify someone in their shadow and intentionally uplift them, sharing the fire of their faith. This episode serves as a penultimate step in the 40-day Kingdom Challenge, focusing on selflessness and setting a godly standard for others.

00:00 The Influence of Your Actions

00:48 Welcome to Day 39 of the Kingdom Challenge

01:05 The Importance of Setting a Standard

01:49 Paul's Example of Leadership

02:31 Living a Life Worth Following

03:29 The Biography Test

04:18 Encouraging Others in Your Shadow

04:55 Final Thoughts and Encouragement