A Matter of Perspective
And you shall remember that the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not. - Deut 8:2 NKJV
40. I've been reflecting on that number recently, because as most of you know, people in our culture make a big deal of "turning 40". Yes, today is my 40th birthday. Honestly, I'm glad that the day is finally here, and today is no different than yesterday...or is it? :)
The number 4o is an important number in the Bible. I like the way WikiAnswers sums up the number's significance as it is referred to in the Bible:
A 40-something time period, whether days, months, or years is ALWAYS a period of testing, trial, probation, or chastisement (but not judgment) and ends with a period of restoration, revival or renewal.
Restoration always follows a period of trial or testing. Over and over and over the bible presents this wonderful truth. So today I'm challenging the world's perspective about "turning 40". Maybe real life begins at the age of 40. By the age of forty we've had some good experiences (either pleasant or unpleasant) from which to draw upon. By the age of 40 we've definitely got more wisdom than we had in our younger years. And hopefully by the age of 40, we've figured out what is really important in life and what we want to be doing for the rest of our lives. After all, who wants to put that 40 years of testing to waste?
No, I have not "arrived" just because I've made it to this year. I have only "arrived" in knowing how much I do not know and understanding that I will never "arrive". However, I do feel that God has humbled and tested me to see what was in my heart so that I will be prepared for the exciting possibilities to come. What are the possibilities that await you?
To Remember:
1) Every new day brings with it a new opportunity, we just need to look for it.
2) The past is best remembered for lessons learned, not for regretting lost time.
3) The best days always are in front of us.
4) We are never today the person we were yesterday .... our experiences make us better.