The Big Four Oh

40

Forty is a significant number in the Bible.

It rained for forty days and forty nights during the great flood (Gen 7:12), and the earth had a new beginning.

Moses went into the midst of the cloud and went up into the mountain for forty days and forty nights (Exo 24:18), and Israel had its first beginning as a nation.

The 12 Scouts/Spies of Israel checked out the land for forty days (Num 13:25), and they did not have their new beginning in the new land because of disobedience.

Goliath, the Philistine, challenged the Israelites for forty days, morning and evening
(1Sa 17:16), and Israel had a new beginning of victories over their enemies.

Jonah preached to Nineveh warning them of judgment falling in 40 days and they repented and had a new beginning as a city. (Jon 3:4)

Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil, fasted forty days and forty nights, and entered into a new season of ministry. (Mat 4:1-2)

The risen Christ instructed His own for forty days prior to ascending and assuming His throne at the right hand of the Father. (Act 1:3)

One point to take note of here, is that regardless of what struggles you may be facing, God has a reward, i.e., a new beginning or new season of blessing, that is yours if you pass the test. Study His Word, seek His will, and serve His way. Hang in there, trust Him, and He will strengthen your heart (Ps. 27:14)

Yours in Him,
Pastor B.