This week, I made an interesting observation, I have (4) book titles that either reflect "40 days" in the title or in the name of the process. All contents are structured to be read, completed, or practiced within a consecutive 40-day window.
There is the 40-Day Turn-Up, a 40-day process to reset eating, activity, and overall health and fitness habits. Then there are the (3) book titles: 1) "The 40-day sugar fast," 2) "The 40-day social media fast," and 3) "The 40-day soul fast." Ironically, all (4) of these books or processes came into my life within the last 2 to 3 weeks.
What is so magical about a 40-day period? Could the results and conclusions be reached in a combined 40 days, or does it have to be a consecutive 40 days? What if I commit to 39 days, will results be thwarted? What if the book I read exceeds the 40 days and I end up finishing at the 60-day mark, are my efforts then in vain? After all, I want results, I want them to last, and I want them fast!
Personally, when I want the truth on a matter, I seek the word of God. Biblically, the number 40 has significance. Several instances of a 40-day period are captured in Scripture. God floods the earth (Genesis 7), with rain for 40 days and nights. Moses fasted while in the presence of God on Mount Sinai for 40 days and nights (Exodus 34). Goliath the giant ridiculed Israel for 40 days before David (soon to become King David) defeated him with his slingshot (I Samual 17). Jesus fasted 40 days and nights while being tempted by the enemy and launched into ministry (Luke 4). Jesus appeared on the earth for 40 days between His resurrection and ascension (Acts 1). These examples reflect pivotal moments in history, in the change of lives, in deliverance being launched, and in promises being established. Forty (40) is representative of a period of time, of testing, of trial, or probation leading to newness, or revival.
So the question remains, if I am faithful, in reading the above-listed books and fully committed to the process defined for 40 days, what can I expect?
Biblically, following the 40-day periods referenced, challenges remained, disobedience was evident and yet there was a marked change. A tangible difference in purpose, however, to fully appreciate and reap the designed benefits, continued focus, work, and obedience, was required. Similarly for me to truly experience the benefits, the change, the transformation that the referenced books showcase, there is ongoing work. Ongoing work through temptation, circumstances, and setbacks. Recollection, recommitment, and even repentance may be required before I fully recognize desired results, changes, and "promised" newness!
Moses received the 10 Commandments during his 40 days, yet the nation of Israel was breaking them as they were being written (Exodus 32:1). Noah was obedient to do all God instructed before the flooding for 40 days, yet he still struggled with drunkenness (Genesis 9:24). Goliath was defeated by David and the Israel nation was again free from its enemy, yet David would now begin to experience the jealous rage of Saul whom he sought to serve (I Samuel 18:9). Jesus was baptized, anointed, fasted, successfully refused temptation, only to be rejected in His hometown (Luke 4:29).
So as we commit to change, becoming vulnerable, and looking introspectively for the purposes of growth, the work begins when the book is closed. The seeds are sown when the last page is read, understood, and applied in our daily lives. The fruit from the sugar, social media, and soul fasts will only be realized and grow with maturity and resilience after the book is closed and the content is internalized and committed to through temptations, disappointments, triggers, and failures. I wish it was "one and done," but that's not how it works.
Whatever book you're reading, whatever new habit you're starting, whatever area of growth you are addressing, know that it will be challenged. Through the challenge maintain your focus, commitment, and discipline to see the fruit!
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