Smith Wigglesworth, a prominent 20th-century preacher and faith healer, left behind a legacy of powerful teachings on finding God's will and living a purposeful life. His life, characterized by unwavering faith and miraculous healings, offers profound insights for those seeking direction and meaning. This exploration delves into some of his most impactful quotes, examining their relevance to our modern quest for purpose. We'll unpack their meaning and consider how to practically apply Wigglesworth's wisdom to discover and fulfill God's plan for our lives.
Understanding God's Will: What Did Smith Wigglesworth Say?
Wigglesworth didn't preach a complicated theology of finding God's will. Instead, his emphasis lay on a simple, powerful faith that recognized God's inherent goodness and desire to bless His children abundantly. He believed that understanding God's will wasn't about deciphering complex riddles but about cultivating an intimate relationship with God through prayer and obedience. Many of his quotes reflect this core belief.
"God's will is not a mysterious thing; it is simply to do what God tells you to do."
This quote encapsulates Wigglesworth's straightforward approach. He didn't believe in agonizing over complex theological debates to discover God's plan. Instead, he stressed the importance of listening to God's voice through prayer, scripture, and the promptings of the Holy Spirit. This involves cultivating a deep, personal relationship with God, allowing Him to guide your steps. It's less about strategizing and more about surrendering.
How do I know if it's God's will?
This is a common question many grapple with. While there isn't a foolproof method, Wigglesworth's teachings suggest focusing on several key aspects:
- Peace and Joy: A sense of inner peace and joy often accompanies decisions aligned with God's will. This inner confirmation transcends mere feelings; it’s a deep-seated conviction of rightness.
- Scriptural Alignment: Does your decision align with biblical principles and teachings? Scrutinizing your actions through the lens of scripture provides valuable guidance.
- Wise Counsel: Seek guidance from trusted mentors or spiritual leaders who can offer prayer and discernment. Their perspective can offer clarity and confirmation.
- Open Doors: God often opens doors of opportunity when we're on the right path. Conversely, He may close doors to protect us from harm or lead us in a different direction.
Remember, discerning God's will is a process, not a destination. It requires continuous seeking and surrender to God's guidance.
"Believe God for the impossible, and you will see the impossible become possible."
This powerful statement underscores Wigglesworth's unwavering faith in God's limitless power. He believed that nothing was impossible for God and encouraged believers to expect miracles and breakthroughs. This wasn't about self-effort but about believing in God's ability to work beyond human limitations. Seeking God's will often involves stepping outside our comfort zones and trusting Him even when the path seems unclear.
How can I develop unwavering faith like Smith Wigglesworth?
Developing unwavering faith is a journey of continuous growth and surrender. It involves:
- Consistent Prayer: Regular communication with God strengthens faith and deepens your relationship with Him.
- Bible Study: Studying scripture reveals God's character, promises, and faithfulness, bolstering your trust in Him.
- Acts of Obedience: Obedience to God's commands, even the small ones, strengthens faith and demonstrates trust.
- Fellowship with Believers: Surrounding yourself with a supportive community of faith strengthens your belief and provides encouragement.
"The greatest thing in the world is to find God's will and then to do it."
This summarizes Wigglesworth's core message. Finding purpose isn't about achieving personal success or worldly accolades; it's about aligning your life with God's plan and fulfilling His purpose for your life. This involves recognizing your gifts and talents and using them to serve God and others.
Conclusion: Embracing God's Purpose
Smith Wigglesworth's life and teachings offer invaluable guidance for those seeking purpose. His emphasis on a simple, unwavering faith, coupled with obedience to God's promptings, provides a practical path to discover and fulfill God's will. By embracing prayer, scripture, and wise counsel, we can cultivate a closer relationship with God and step confidently into the purpose He has planned for our lives. His legacy encourages us to believe in the impossible, trust in God's guidance, and find fulfillment in aligning our lives with His divine plan.