Smith Wigglesworth, a prominent figure in the Pentecostal movement of the early 20th century, is renowned for his powerful faith and miraculous healings. His teachings on prayer, gleaned from years of dedicated practice and profound spiritual experience, continue to inspire believers today. While one specific quote might be highlighted as a "must-read," understanding his broader perspective on prayer provides a richer appreciation of his legacy. This article delves into Wigglesworth's key beliefs on prayer, exploring his approach and its lasting influence.
We'll examine his core principles, answering common questions surrounding his powerful prayer life. This isn't just about reciting a famous quote; it's about understanding the philosophy behind it and applying those principles to deepen our own prayer lives.
What was Smith Wigglesworth's most famous quote on prayer?
While pinpointing the single most famous quote is difficult, a common and impactful statement attributed to him encapsulates his belief in the power of persistent, believing prayer: "Get hold of God and don't let go." This simple yet profound statement speaks volumes about his unwavering faith and tenacious pursuit of God's will. It highlights the importance of perseverance and persistence in prayer, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
What did Smith Wigglesworth believe about believing prayer?
Wigglesworth's theology centered on the belief that God desires to answer our prayers and that faith is the key to unlocking this divine power. He didn't just passively pray; he actively engaged with God, expecting a response. His "believing prayer" wasn't about wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on God's promises in scripture. He saw prayer as a conversation with God, not a mere recitation of requests. He emphasized faith-filled persistence, believing that God would answer according to His perfect will and timing.
How did Smith Wigglesworth's prayer life differ from others?
Wigglesworth's prayer life was characterized by its intensity and unwavering faith. Unlike some who approach prayer as a ritual or obligation, Wigglesworth engaged in it with a passionate expectancy. He often spent hours in prayer, wrestling with God until he received an answer. His deep relationship with God fueled his persistent prayer, resulting in numerous documented miracles of healing and divine intervention. His prayer life wasn’t a compartmentalized activity; it was the very fabric of his existence, permeating every aspect of his daily life.
What are the key principles of Smith Wigglesworth's approach to prayer?
Several core principles underpinned Wigglesworth's approach to prayer:
- Persistent Faith: He believed in the power of persistent, unwavering faith, clinging to God's promises until an answer was received.
- Expectant Faith: He didn't just pray; he expected God to answer. This expectancy wasn't presumptuous but stemmed from a deep-seated trust in God's power and faithfulness.
- Relational Prayer: He viewed prayer as a personal, intimate conversation with God, not a mere transaction.
- Obedience: His prayer life was intertwined with obedience to God's will. He believed that genuine prayer is accompanied by a willingness to follow God's leading.
- The Power of Agreement: He emphasized the power of unified prayer, believing that when believers prayed together in agreement, their prayers would be especially potent.
What is the lasting impact of Smith Wigglesworth's teachings on prayer?
Wigglesworth's teachings on prayer continue to resonate with believers worldwide. His emphasis on fervent, faith-filled prayer has inspired countless individuals to pursue a deeper relationship with God and to experience the transformative power of believing prayer. His legacy serves as a reminder that persistent, expectant prayer can unlock God's miraculous power in our lives and the lives of others. His unwavering faith and powerful testimonies serve as an example of what is possible through dedicated, believing prayer.
This exploration of Smith Wigglesworth's approach to prayer goes beyond a single quote. It showcases the holistic, passionate, and unwavering faith that characterized his life and ministry, providing a powerful model for believers seeking to deepen their own prayer lives. His legacy encourages us to pursue a closer walk with God through persistent, expectant, and believing prayer.
