Smith Wigglesworth, a prominent figure in 20th-century Pentecostalism, was renowned for his unwavering faith and spectacular demonstrations of God's power. His life was a testament to the principle of receiving from God – not merely asking, but actively believing and expecting divine provision in every area of life. This exploration delves into Wigglesworth's teachings on receiving from God, examining his key principles and offering insights into how his approach can be applied today.
What Did Smith Wigglesworth Teach About Receiving from God?
Wigglesworth's teaching on receiving from God wasn't simply a theoretical concept; it was the very foundation of his life and ministry. He emphasized a radical faith, a complete trust in God's promises, and a relentless pursuit of God's will. For him, receiving wasn't about manipulating God; it was about aligning oneself with God's heart and believing that He wants to bless His children abundantly. He believed that God's desire is to lavish His goodness upon us, far exceeding our wildest expectations. This is not about material wealth alone, but encompassing every aspect of a believer's life – spiritual growth, physical healing, relational restoration, and more.
How Did Smith Wigglesworth's Faith Manifest in Receiving from God?
Wigglesworth's life serves as a powerful example of faith in action. Numerous accounts detail his miraculous healings, financial provisions, and answers to prayer. These weren't isolated incidents but rather the consistent outcome of a life lived in unwavering faith. He didn't just pray; he believed he had already received. His expectancy wasn't passive; it was active, fueled by a deep conviction of God's love and power. He approached God with bold, confident faith, believing that God was as eager to give as he was to receive.
What were the key elements of Smith Wigglesworth's faith?
This question probes the core of Wigglesworth's belief system. His faith was characterized by several key elements:
- Unwavering Belief in God's Word: He grounded his faith in the promises of Scripture, believing them implicitly and expecting them to manifest in his life.
- Persistent Prayer: Wigglesworth wasn't shy about persistently seeking God's face until he received an answer. His prayers weren't perfunctory but heartfelt expressions of faith and dependence on God.
- Boldness and Confidence: He approached God with a boldness that stemmed from a deep knowledge of His love and power. He didn't hesitate to claim God's promises, believing that God delights in answering the prayers of His faithful children.
- Expectancy and Gratitude: He lived with a constant expectation of receiving from God, coupled with an attitude of gratitude for what he already possessed. This positive mindset was crucial to his ability to receive even more.
What are some practical steps to receive from God, based on Smith Wigglesworth's teachings?
This question seeks practical application of Wigglesworth's principles. Based on his life and teachings, here are some practical steps:
- Study God's Word: Immerse yourself in Scripture, meditating on God's promises and allowing them to shape your faith.
- Pray Boldly and Confidently: Approach God with unwavering faith, believing that He is able and willing to answer your prayers.
- Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude: Express thanks for God's blessings, both big and small, fostering a heart of receptivity.
- Live a Life of Obedience: Align your life with God's will, understanding that obedience unlocks greater blessings.
- Expect Miracles: Believe that God is still performing miracles today and expect Him to work in your life.
How can we apply Smith Wigglesworth's teachings on receiving from God in our modern context?
This question addresses the relevance of Wigglesworth's teachings in today's world. His teachings remain incredibly relevant today, offering a powerful antidote to doubt and unbelief. In a world often characterized by cynicism and skepticism, Wigglesworth's example reminds us of the boundless power and love of God. His principles of unwavering faith, persistent prayer, and confident expectancy are timeless and applicable to every area of life, regardless of our circumstances.
By embracing these principles and studying the life of Smith Wigglesworth, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of how to receive from God, experiencing His abundant blessings in every aspect of our lives. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder that a life of faith is a life of receiving, a life overflowing with the goodness and grace of God.
