A few years ago, there was a trend among Christians to celebrate the number 41, emphasizing a biblical theme of testing or trials that last for forty days. For instance, it rained for 40 days and 40 nights (Genesis 7:12), the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years (Deuteronomy 8:2), and Jesus fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:2). This number appears multiple times in connection with periods of testing and faithfulness. The idea was that if you could endure the 40 days or years, you just needed to hold on until the forty-first day or year. While I appreciate the sentiment of perseverance, I believe it is flawed upon examining the broader context of scripture.
After the 40 days and nights of rain, Noah remained in the ark for another 330 days (Genesis 8:13). After the Israelites wandered for 40 years, they still needed to enter the land of Canaan and dispossess the nations living there before they could finally find rest (Joshua 23:1). Following Jesus’ fast in the wilderness, it was then that Satan came to tempt Him (Matthew 4:3).
While there is some truth to the idea of a testing period being associated with the number 40, it seems that this time is meant to strengthen God’s people for what comes next. The key realization is that for God to use you, you must be humbled—whether through torrential rains, wandering, or hunger. When you are at your weakest, you are less reliant on yourself and must turn to Him for strength.
The forty-day or forty-year period is designed to draw you closer to God so that you are walking with Him when the true test arrives. Some may perceive that God is absent during these testing times. However, the biblical model shows that whether one is on a mountaintop or in a valley, God is always present.
Psalm 139:5-10 states: “You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it. Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.”
Interestingly, this is my forty-first year. I can genuinely say that God has been with me every step of the way. He was never absent; in my hardest times, I could see and feel His presence. The forty years prior have prepared me for whatever lies ahead. It is not yet time to rest; there are still enemies to conquer, battles to fight, and temptations to overcome. I am thankful for my 40 years, and I am ready to walk with God into year 41.