Smith Wigglesworth, a prominent figure in the Pentecostal movement of the early 20th century, is renowned for his powerful preaching and unwavering belief in divine healing. His life and ministry were characterized by extraordinary acts of faith and healing, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring quotes that continue to resonate with believers today. This article delves into the profound wisdom contained within Wigglesworth's words, exploring their meaning and relevance for modern readers. We will examine several of his most impactful quotes and address common questions surrounding his teachings on faith healing.
What Did Smith Wigglesworth Believe About Faith Healing?
Smith Wigglesworth believed wholeheartedly in the power of God to heal all manner of sickness and disease. His faith wasn't merely a theological concept; it was a lived reality, demonstrated through countless healings he witnessed and performed. He emphasized that healing was not dependent on human effort or manipulation but on unwavering faith in the promises of God as revealed in Scripture. He believed that faith wasn't a feeling but a decision, an act of the will to trust implicitly in God's power. This trust, according to Wigglesworth, unlocks the divine power available to those who believe.
What are some of Smith Wigglesworth’s most famous quotes on faith?
Many of Wigglesworth’s quotes encapsulate his unwavering faith and understanding of God's power. Some of his most famous include:
-
"Faith is not a feeling; it is an act of the will." This highlights the crucial element of choice in faith. It's not about passively waiting for a feeling of faith to arrive but actively choosing to believe, regardless of circumstances.
-
"Get hold of God. Don't let go." This emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and unwavering commitment to God. It suggests a wrestling, a tenacious grip on faith, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
-
"The devil cannot stand before a believing heart." This powerful declaration underscores the transformative power of faith. When faith is genuine and unwavering, it becomes a formidable force against spiritual opposition.
How did Smith Wigglesworth's faith manifest in his life?
Wigglesworth's faith wasn't merely theoretical; it manifested powerfully in his life and ministry. He consistently demonstrated an unwavering belief in God's ability to heal, leading to numerous documented instances of miraculous healing. His life serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith, showcasing how unwavering belief can lead to extraordinary results. This wasn't simply self-belief; it was a deep, abiding trust in the power and sovereignty of God.
What is the difference between faith and belief according to Smith Wigglesworth? (Implicit in his teachings)
While Wigglesworth didn't explicitly delineate a sharp difference between "faith" and "belief," his teachings imply a distinction in practice. Belief might encompass intellectual assent to theological truths. However, faith, according to Wigglesworth's actions and teachings, is a dynamic, active engagement with those truths. It's a trust that moves beyond intellectual understanding to a confident expectation of God's intervention and a willingness to act upon that expectation. It's the difference between knowing God exists and experiencing His power in action.
How can we apply Smith Wigglesworth’s teachings on faith to our lives today?
Wigglesworth's teachings remain powerfully relevant today. We can apply his principles by:
- Cultivating a mindset of unwavering faith: Choosing to believe in God's power, regardless of our circumstances.
- Persisting in prayer: Tenaciously seeking God's intervention, even when we don't see immediate results.
- Acting on our faith: Taking steps of obedience based on our belief in God's promises.
- Focusing on God's promises: Meditating on and believing God's word regarding healing and other blessings.
Conclusion
Smith Wigglesworth's legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. His inspiring quotes and powerful demonstrations of faith continue to challenge and inspire believers worldwide. By studying his life and teachings, we can learn valuable lessons about the transformative power of unwavering faith and its potential to bring healing and transformation to our lives and the lives of others. His emphasis on faith as an active choice, rather than a passive feeling, provides a practical framework for engaging with God and experiencing His power. The enduring impact of his ministry lies in his unwavering demonstration of a faith that conquered obstacles and brought forth miraculous results.
