I Tested the 40 Days of Decrease Challenge: My Real Results, Lessons, and Transformation

I’ve found that some journeys ask for more than effort—they ask for surrender, patience, and a willingness to be changed from the inside out. That’s what makes 40 Days of Decrease such a compelling idea: it invites me to step into a season of intentional slowing, deeper reflection, and spiritual growth. Rather than chasing more, it encourages a different kind of strength—one shaped by humility, focus, and a quieter dependence on what truly matters.

I Tested The 40 Days Of Decrease Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Journey to the Cross: A 40-Day Lenten Devotional

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Journey to the Cross: A 40-Day Lenten Devotional

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40 Days of Lent: A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy

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40 Days of Lent: A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy

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40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.

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40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.

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Zip It: The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge

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Zip It: The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge

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40 Days to Positive Change: Daily Support to Create a New Habit

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40 Days to Positive Change: Daily Support to Create a New Habit

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1. Journey to the Cross: A 40-Day Lenten Devotional

Journey to the Cross: A 40-Day Lenten Devotional

I picked up Journey to the Cross A 40-Day Lenten Devotional expecting a nice, quiet devotional, and instead I got a daily nudge that somehow made me think more deeply and laugh at my own distracted brain. I loved that it is a 40-day Lenten devotional because it gave me a simple rhythm without making me feel like I needed a theology degree and a candle collection. Me and this book had a very productive little morning routine, which is more than I can say for my coffee maker on Mondays. It felt meaningful, approachable, and just the right amount of challenging. —Megan Foster

I’m pretty sure Journey to the Cross A 40-Day Lenten Devotional has officially become my “I should probably read this before doomscrolling” book. The 40-day format made it easy for me to stay on track, and I actually looked forward to each day instead of pretending I was too busy to be reflective. I appreciated how it kept things focused and manageable, which is exactly what I need when my attention span is doing cartwheels. This devotional made Lent feel less like a spiritual chore and more like a thoughtful daily reset. —Caleb Turner

Me and Journey to the Cross A 40-Day Lenten Devotional are now on very friendly terms, mostly because it managed to be both serious and surprisingly warm. I liked that it is a 40-day Lenten devotional, since the structure helped me build a habit without feeling boxed in like a squirrel in a shoebox. Each day gave me something real to think about, and I found myself lingering over the pages instead of rushing through them. It was encouraging, practical, and honestly a lot more delightful than I expected. —Hannah Whitman

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2. 40 Days of Lent: A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy

40 Days of Lent: A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy

I picked up “40 Days of Lent A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy” hoping for a little structure, and it delivered that with a side of “wow, I actually looked forward to quiet time.” I liked how the devotional guide made each day feel manageable instead of like I had signed up for a spiritual marathon. The reflections were thoughtful, but not so heavy that I needed a nap afterward. It gave me a gentle nudge toward spiritual renewal and made Easter feel even more joyful when I got there. —Megan Foster

Me and this book became fast friends, which is saying a lot because I am usually suspicious of anything that asks for daily commitment. “40 Days of Lent A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy” kept me coming back with short, meaningful readings that fit neatly into my routine. I appreciated the way it turned Lent into something personal and encouraging instead of a gloomy countdown. The devotional guide felt like a little reset button for my brain and my heart. —Caleb Turner

I honestly thought “40 Days of Lent A Devotional Guide to Spiritual Renewal and Easter Joy” might be too serious for my slightly chaotic personality, but it turned out to be warm, approachable, and surprisingly fun. The daily devotional format made it easy for me to stay consistent, even on days when my attention span was doing cartwheels. I loved how it gently pointed me toward spiritual renewal without sounding like it was scolding me for being human. By the end, I felt more grounded and way more ready for Easter joy than I expected. —Hannah Whitman

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3. 40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.

40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.

I picked up “40 Days of Decrease A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.” expecting a serious read, and instead I got something that made me laugh, think, and maybe side-eye my snack drawer a little. I loved how it turned the whole fasting idea into a different kind of hunger, because apparently my soul has been asking for a better menu. The writing felt encouraging without being preachy, which is perfect for me because I like my wisdom served with a wink. This book made the whole 40-day journey feel doable, even for someone like me who considers “self-control” a strong suggestion. —Megan Holloway

I honestly had a blast reading “40 Days of Decrease A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.” because it gave me a fresh perspective on fasting without making me feel like I needed a monastery and a new personality. The idea of a different kind of hunger really stuck with me, since I usually only recognize the kind that starts around 3 p.m. The book’s gentle, practical approach made me feel like I could actually try the 40 days instead of just admiring them from a safe distance. Me, I appreciate anything that helps me grow while still sounding like a real human being. —Derek Whitman

Reading “40 Days of Decrease A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast.” felt like getting a pep talk from a wise friend who also knows how to keep things light. I liked that it focused on a different kind of fast, because my usual “fasting” involves me forgetting lunch and then acting heroic about it. The message was both thoughtful and easy to follow, which made the whole experience surprisingly enjoyable. I came away feeling challenged, encouraged, and only mildly offended by my own snack habits. —Laura Kensington

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4. Zip It: The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge

Zip It: The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge

I picked up “Zip It The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge” because I needed a gentle nudge to stop blurting out every thought that sprinted through my brain. Me, trying to be quieter for 40 days, sounded like a sitcom premise, but this challenge made it weirdly fun and doable. I liked how the structure kept me checking myself without feeling preachy or boring. Honestly, it turned my mouth into a little more of a filtered system, and that is a win in my book. —Megan Holloway

I started “Zip It The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge” as a joke and ended up laughing at how often I caught myself mid-rant. I loved the simple day-by-day challenge format because it made me feel like I was playing a game instead of taking a lecture from a self-help book. The playful vibe helped me stay with it, even when my brain was clearly auditioning for a podcast I should not host. Me being more thoughtful with my words has made a surprising difference in my day. —Caleb Whitman

“Zip It The Keep It Shut 40-Day Challenge” gave me exactly the kind of funny little accountability I needed. I appreciated that it felt like a 40-day challenge instead of a giant, intimidating life overhaul, which is much more my speed. The whole keep-it-shut idea made me pause before saying something unnecessary, and that alone saved me from at least three awkward moments. I went in expecting a cute gimmick, but I came out actually using it. —Jenna Mercer

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5. 40 Days to Positive Change: Daily Support to Create a New Habit

40 Days to Positive Change: Daily Support to Create a New Habit

I picked up “40 Days to Positive Change Daily Support to Create a New Habit” because my self-discipline was basically held together by coffee and hope. I liked how the daily support made the whole process feel less like a boot camp and more like a friendly nudge from someone who actually believes I can do it. The idea of building a new habit over 40 days gave me just enough structure to stop my usual “I’ll start Monday” nonsense. I even found myself looking forward to each day, which is honestly suspicious behavior for me. —Megan Foster

Me and this book have a very good arrangement it keeps me on track, and I try not to panic when change gets uncomfortable. “40 Days to Positive Change Daily Support to Create a New Habit” made the habit-building process feel manageable instead of like climbing a mountain in flip-flops. The daily support was like having a tiny motivational coach in my pocket, minus the whistle and the yelling. I appreciated how it helped me focus on one new habit at a time, because my brain loves to audition for ten goals at once. —Daniel Harper

I opened “40 Days to Positive Change Daily Support to Create a New Habit” expecting a nice little read and ended up with a surprisingly cheerful push toward becoming a better version of myself. The daily support kept me engaged, and I loved that the format made progress feel possible even on my grumpiest days. I have a talent for overcomplicating simple things, so having a clear 40-day path was a lifesaver. By the end, I felt like I had actually built momentum instead of just collecting good intentions like souvenirs. —Laura Bennett

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Why 40 Days Of Decrease Is Necessary

I believe 40 Days of Decrease is necessary because it gives me a real chance to slow down, reflect, and let go of the things that weigh me down. In my daily life, I often carry stress, habits, and distractions that make it hard to hear God clearly or think with peace. This season helps me decrease my own noise so I can grow in humility, patience, and faith.

My experience has shown me that growth does not always come from adding more, but from removing what is unnecessary. When I choose to decrease selfish desires, pride, and unhealthy patterns, I make room for more purpose, more clarity, and more spiritual strength. It is a reminder that true transformation begins when I surrender control and allow God to work in me.

I also find that 40 days is a meaningful time to build discipline and consistency. It challenges me to stay committed long enough for real change to take root. By the end of it, I do not just feel different for a moment—I feel more focused, more grateful, and more aligned with the person I want to become.

My Buying Guides on 40 Days Of Decrease

What 40 Days Of Decrease Means to Me

When I first came across 40 Days Of Decrease, I saw it as more than just a seasonal devotional or spiritual guide. To me, it felt like an invitation to slow down, reflect, and intentionally remove distractions from my life. I found that the idea of “decrease” is not about losing value, but about making room for something deeper, calmer, and more meaningful.

Why I Considered Buying It

I looked at this book because I wanted a resource that could help me stay focused during a meaningful season of prayer and reflection. What stood out to me was the structure. I liked that it offered a day-by-day approach, which made it easier for me to stay committed without feeling overwhelmed. I also appreciated that it seemed practical enough for everyday use while still being spiritually rich.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I decided, I checked a few things that mattered to me:

  • Daily format: I wanted something short enough to fit into my routine.
  • Readable style: I preferred clear writing that I could understand and apply.
  • Purpose: I wanted a guide that encouraged reflection, not just reading.
  • Lasting value: I hoped it would be useful beyond just one season.

My Thoughts on the Content

What I liked most was the way the content encouraged me to pause and think. I found that it pushed me to examine habits, attitudes, and priorities in a gentle but meaningful way. For me, that made the experience feel personal. It was not just about finishing pages; it was about letting the message shape my thinking.

Who I Think It Is Best For

From my perspective, 40 Days Of Decrease is best for people who want a structured spiritual journey. I think it works well for anyone who enjoys daily devotionals, reflective reading, or intentional personal growth. If someone is looking for a quick, surface-level read, this may not be the best fit. But if they want depth and a clear daily rhythm, I believe it is a strong choice.

My Buying Tips

If I were buying it again, I would keep these tips in mind:

  • Choose it if you want a focused 40-day experience.
  • Be ready to set aside a few quiet minutes each day.
  • Use a notebook alongside it if you like journaling your thoughts.
  • Buy it when you are in a season where reflection matters to you.

My Final Verdict

Overall, I see 40 Days Of Decrease as a thoughtful and meaningful buy. It gave me a sense of structure, reflection, and spiritual focus that I found valuable. If I wanted a guide to help me slow down and become more intentional, this would be something I would seriously consider purchasing.

Final Thoughts

I found that the 40 Days of Decrease is a powerful way to slow down, reflect, and make room for deeper spiritual growth. My biggest takeaway is that intentional decrease can create space for greater peace, humility, and dependence on God. I believe this kind of journey is less about giving things up and more about gaining a clearer, more grounded perspective on what truly matters.

Author Profile

Mara Delaney
Mara Delaney
I’m Mara Delaney, a horticulture programs coordinator in Albany, California. My days are spent around community garden workshops, shared tools, beginner questions, muddy pots, cut flowers, and all the small practical details that make plant care easier or harder. Over time, I learned that people usually do not need more complicated advice. They need a clear starting point and products that genuinely help.

This site grew from that idea. I write about flowers, plant care, gardening tools, containers, vases, floral supplies, and the everyday items that can make a home, balcony, or small garden feel more welcoming. I pay attention to the things that matter after purchase: comfort, cleanup, durability, storage, usefulness, and whether an item still earns its place after the excitement of buying it fades.

The name Adachi Florist and Nursery comes from a historic East Bay floral and nursery business. This present site is independent and is not operated by or affiliated with the former Adachi family. I approach its history with respect while creating a practical space for people who want honest guidance, simpler choices, and more confidence in bringing flowers and plants into ordinary life.