Smith Wigglesworth, a pivotal figure in 20th-century Pentecostalism, wasn't known for his eloquent sermons as much as for his unwavering faith and the demonstrable power of God he experienced. His life, marked by extraordinary healings and miracles, stands as a testament to the courage found in an intimate relationship with God. This article delves into Wigglesworth's life and teachings, exploring how he found—and how we can find—courage through unwavering faith in God. We'll examine his inspiring words and demonstrate how his practical approach to faith can empower us to face life's challenges with boldness.
What Made Smith Wigglesworth So Courageous?
Wigglesworth’s courage wasn't born from an absence of fear, but rather from a deep, unwavering faith in God's power and promises. He understood that true courage stems from a reliance on something far greater than oneself. He faced adversity head-on, not through his own strength, but through a complete surrender to the will of God. His life demonstrates that courage isn't the absence of fear, but the triumph over it through faith. This unshakeable faith was nurtured through persistent prayer, a devoted study of scripture, and an unwavering belief in the power of the Holy Spirit.
How Did Smith Wigglesworth Find Courage in Difficult Times?
Wigglesworth’s life wasn't without its trials. He faced poverty, personal loss, and opposition to his ministry. However, his responses to these challenges reveal a powerful strategy for finding courage in the face of adversity. He consistently turned to prayer, seeking God's guidance and strength. He didn't shy away from difficult situations but instead confronted them with a boldness born from his unwavering belief in God's power to overcome any obstacle. His faith was not a passive acceptance of fate, but an active engagement with God, leading him to courageous action.
What are Some of Smith Wigglesworth's Most Inspiring Quotes on Courage?
While not prolific in written works, Wigglesworth's teachings, passed down through sermons and personal accounts, resonate with profound wisdom. Many of his teachings focused on the practical application of faith, emphasizing the importance of bold action fueled by unwavering belief. Unfortunately, precise attribution to specific quotes is often difficult, as much of his legacy is oral. However, the overarching theme consistently emphasizes trusting in God's power to overcome any obstacle, a message that profoundly inspires courage. This belief empowered him to approach seemingly insurmountable challenges with boldness and faith.
How Can We Cultivate the Same Courage That Smith Wigglesworth Possessed?
We can cultivate the same kind of courage by actively seeking a deeper relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. This involves intentionally spending time in God's presence, seeking His guidance in daily life and developing a strong foundation in His Word. The more we know God and experience His faithfulness, the more confident we become in His ability to see us through any challenge. Further, embracing a life of obedience, actively seeking to live according to God's will, strengthens our faith and equips us to face whatever life throws our way with courage.
Did Smith Wigglesworth Believe in the Power of Prayer?
Absolutely. Prayer formed the cornerstone of Wigglesworth's life and ministry. He viewed prayer not as a mere ritual, but as a powerful means of communication with God, a channel through which he received guidance, strength, and the power to perform miracles. He often emphasized persistent, believing prayer—praying with expectation and unwavering faith in God’s ability to answer. His life demonstrates the transformative power of prayer in overcoming fear and building unshakeable courage.
What Role Did Faith Play in Smith Wigglesworth's Courage?
Faith was the bedrock of Wigglesworth's courage. It wasn't a passive belief, but an active, vibrant trust in God's power and promises. His faith fueled his actions, giving him the boldness to step out in faith and confront challenges head-on. This unwavering faith wasn't solely an intellectual assent but a deep, experiential knowledge of God's presence and power in his life. This profound connection provided him with the courage to face adversity and to trust in God’s plan, even when circumstances seemed hopeless.
In conclusion, Smith Wigglesworth’s life serves as an inspiring example of how unwavering faith in God can cultivate extraordinary courage. His legacy reminds us that true courage isn't the absence of fear, but the triumph over it through a deep and abiding relationship with God. By emulating his dedication to prayer, his study of Scripture, and his unwavering trust in God's power, we too can discover the boundless courage that resides within us, empowered by the divine.
