As Long As It Takes: The Biblical Meaning of 40 and the Power of Patient Transformation (Matthew 17:4)

 

As Long As It Takes: The Biblical Meaning of 40 and the Power of Patient Transformation

"Peter said to Jesus, 'Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you desire, I will put up three tabernacles one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.'" – Matthew 17:4 (KSB)

   Transformation and change require patience and persistence. God, who has begun a good work in you, will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Different changes require different amounts of time, but the commitment remains the same: as long as it takes, transformation will occur. You may need to change words that no longer serve you, thoughts you have carried for years, or behaviors that do not align with Truth. Scripture reminds us that life and death are in the power of the tongue, and whatever we sow, we reap. Therefore, patience with yourself is essential. God’s mercy endures forever and because God shows patience, you can extend patience to yourself and others while making necessary changes.

   In the account of the Transfiguration, Peter, James, and John witnessed Jesus transformed in glory. Moses and Elijah appeared alongside Him. These three Moses, Elijah, and Jesus share a common thread: each experienced a 40-day period of consecration and fasting. Moses fasted forty days on Mount Sinai. Jesus fasted forty days in the wilderness. Elijah endured forty-day experiences during his prophetic journey.

   Throughout Scripture, the number 40 symbolizes transformation and change. It represents a shift in consciousness not a temporary adjustment, but a lasting renewal.

   First, some changes take 40 years. The children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for forty years on what could have been an eleven-day journey. That time allowed the old consciousness to fade and a new one to emerge. Likewise, some may take decades to heal from childhood trauma. Yet healing and wholeness come if you refuse to give up.

   Second, some changes take 40 weeks. A full-term pregnancy lasts about forty weeks a sacred period of development and preparation. Certain spiritual transformations unfold in a similar way, gradually forming a life where nothing is missing, nothing is broken, and nothing is out of place.

   Third, some changes take 40 days. Seasons of focused prayer, fasting, and consecration bring about profound shifts. Intentional spiritual discipline accelerates growth and realigns your consciousness with divine Truth.

   Fourth, some changes take 40 hours—or even 40 minutes. Minor adjustments, such as releasing anger before the sun sets, can resolve quickly. Depending on your current level of awareness and prior growth, transformation may occur swiftly even in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.

   The number 40 represents transformation across varying durations 40 years, 40 weeks, 40 days, 40 hours, or 40 minutes. The key is patience, grace, and perseverance. When you join the consciousness exemplified by Moses, Elijah, and Jesus, you align yourself with lasting change.

   As long as it takes, transformation happens. Be patient. Be persistent. Stay committed to growth in your thoughts, words, and actions. God supports your journey toward wholeness, and the good work begun in you will be completed. Amen.

How long does it take to change a habit?

   1. 40 years
   2. 40 weeks
   3. 40 days
   4. 40 hours
   5. 40 minutes

📖 Reflection: Where in your life do you need to extend more patience to yourself while God completes His transforming work?

💡 Action Step: Identify one habit you desire to change and commit to nurturing it faithfully—whether it takes 40 minutes or 40 years. Stay the course.