Smith Wigglesworth, a prominent 20th-century evangelist, left an indelible mark on the Christian world with his powerful preaching and demonstrations of God's supernatural power. His life and ministry continue to inspire believers today, challenging them to step into a deeper relationship with God and experience the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. One of his most well-known quotes, often simply stated as "Expect God to do the unexpected," encapsulates his unwavering faith and belief in God's limitless capacity to act. This quote, though concise, holds profound implications for believers seeking to understand and experience God's power in their lives.
Understanding the Depth of Wigglesworth's Message
Wigglesworth’s statement, "Expect God to do the unexpected," isn't merely a hopeful sentiment; it's a call to action, a declaration of faith rooted in a deep understanding of God's character and nature. It challenges the limitations of human reasoning and encourages believers to move beyond preconceived notions of how God works. His emphasis on expectation highlights the vital role of faith in accessing God's power. It's not enough to passively hope for a miracle; active expectation, a confident anticipation fueled by faith, is crucial.
This active expectation isn't blind optimism. It stems from a knowledge of God's word and a consistent walk of obedience. Wigglesworth's life was a testament to this principle. He consistently demonstrated God's power through healing, miracles, and spiritual breakthroughs, all because he expected God to act. His faith wasn't based on wishful thinking, but on a profound understanding of God's promises and His faithfulness to His people.
What Did Smith Wigglesworth Mean by "Unexpected"?
Wigglesworth's use of "unexpected" doesn't imply that God acts capriciously or arbitrarily. Instead, it speaks to the often-unforeseen ways in which God chooses to manifest His power. He often works outside the parameters of our understanding, exceeding our expectations and surpassing our limited perspectives. What might seem impossible to us is entirely possible with God. The "unexpected" aspect refers to the miraculous, the extraordinary interventions of God that defy natural explanation.
How Can I Expect God to Do the Unexpected?
This is a crucial question, and the answer lies in cultivating a deep and abiding faith. It involves:
- Studying God's Word: Familiarizing yourself with God's promises and His past acts of power builds confidence in His ability to act today.
- Prayer and Intercession: Persistent prayer opens the lines of communication with God, aligning your will with His and fostering a deeper intimacy with Him.
- Obedience to God's Will: Faith without works is dead. Obedience demonstrates your trust in God and makes you receptive to His power.
- Surrendering Your Will: Letting go of control and surrendering your anxieties to God allows Him to work freely in your life.
- Fellowship with Believers: Surrounding yourself with other believers strengthens your faith and provides support during times of testing.
What Are Some Examples of God Doing the Unexpected?
Throughout scripture and history, we find countless examples of God doing the unexpected. From the parting of the Red Sea to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has consistently demonstrated His power in ways that defied human comprehension. In our own lives, we may experience seemingly impossible breakthroughs, unexpected healings, or providential provision – all testaments to God's limitless power and unwavering love. These experiences serve as reminders to maintain unwavering faith and expect God to act.
How Can I Apply This to My Daily Life?
Applying Wigglesworth's wisdom to daily life involves cultivating a mindset of expectation in all areas. This includes trusting God for provision, healing, guidance, and protection. It's about anticipating God's intervention in even the mundane aspects of life, believing that He is active and involved in every detail. It's believing that even in the midst of challenges, God is working, and His power is available to transform any situation.
In conclusion, Smith Wigglesworth's powerful quote, "Expect God to do the unexpected," serves as a potent reminder of God's limitless power and His desire to work miraculously in the lives of those who believe. By cultivating a deep faith, actively seeking God's will, and embracing obedience, we can position ourselves to experience the transformative power of God in our lives – experiencing the unexpected blessings He has in store.
