Smith Wigglesworth, a prominent figure in 20th-century Pentecostalism, was known for his powerful preaching and demonstrations of God's power. His life and ministry were deeply rooted in a vibrant walk with the Holy Spirit, a concept he often addressed in his teachings. This exploration delves into some of his most impactful quotes on walking in the Spirit, providing context and insights into their meaning and application for modern believers.
While direct, attributed quotes from Wigglesworth can be challenging to definitively source, the essence of his teachings on the subject is readily available through biographical accounts and sermon transcripts. This article draws upon this collective knowledge to explore the key themes he emphasized.
What Did Smith Wigglesworth Mean by "Walking in the Spirit"?
For Wigglesworth, "walking in the Spirit" wasn't a passive or theoretical concept; it was an active, daily engagement with the Holy Spirit's leading and power. It wasn't about a fleeting experience but a consistent lifestyle characterized by obedience, faith, and supernatural empowerment. He emphasized a complete surrender to the Holy Spirit's influence, allowing the Spirit to direct every aspect of life – thoughts, words, and actions. This involved a conscious choice to yield to the Spirit's promptings and follow His guidance, even when it meant stepping outside of comfort zones or facing opposition.
How Can We Walk in the Spirit According to Smith Wigglesworth's Teachings?
Wigglesworth's emphasis on practical application is crucial. His teachings weren't solely theoretical; he lived what he preached, demonstrating the tangible results of walking in the Spirit through miraculous healings, signs, and wonders. Key aspects he highlighted include:
-
Obedience to the Holy Spirit's Leading: This involved actively listening for the Spirit's voice, paying attention to inner promptings, and promptly obeying His instructions, regardless of personal preferences or perceived difficulties. Wigglesworth emphasized that true spiritual growth stems from a willingness to surrender to the Spirit's direction, even when it's challenging.
-
A Life of Prayer and Communion with God: Consistent prayer wasn't merely a ritual for Wigglesworth; it was a vital lifeline to the Holy Spirit, fostering a deep intimacy with God. He encouraged believers to cultivate a constant communion with the divine, seeking guidance, strength, and wisdom through prayer.
-
Faith and Boldness: Walking in the Spirit required unwavering faith and boldness to act on the Spirit's promptings. Wigglesworth believed that God empowers those who dare to step out in faith, trusting in His provision and guidance. He encouraged believers to expect miracles and supernatural manifestations of God’s power.
-
Love and Compassion: Wigglesworth’s teaching on walking in the Spirit was not confined to personal experience; it inherently encompassed a life of love and compassion towards others. He emphasized the importance of extending God's love to all, regardless of their background or circumstances.
What are Some Common Obstacles to Walking in the Spirit?
While Wigglesworth championed the vibrant possibilities of a Spirit-filled life, he also acknowledged the challenges. Some obstacles he addressed, implicitly or explicitly, include:
-
Disobedience and Self-Will: Refusal to yield to the Holy Spirit's leading, prioritizing personal desires over God's will, hinders spiritual growth and hinders the flow of God's power.
-
Lack of Faith: Doubt and unbelief limit the power of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life, stifling the supernatural manifestations that often accompany a Spirit-filled life.
-
Unconfessed Sin: Sin creates a barrier between believers and God, hindering the free flow of the Holy Spirit's influence. Repentance and confession are essential for maintaining a close relationship with God and walking in the Spirit.
How Does Walking in the Spirit Manifest in Daily Life?
Walking in the Spirit isn't confined to extraordinary events; it manifests in the everyday choices and actions of a believer's life. Wigglesworth's teachings suggest that a Spirit-led life is characterized by:
-
Increased sensitivity to God's voice: A heightened awareness of the Holy Spirit's promptings, guiding decisions and actions.
-
Fruit of the Spirit: A consistent display of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
-
Supernatural empowerment: The manifestation of God's power in healing, deliverance, and other miraculous works.
-
A life marked by peace and joy: An inner peace and unwavering joy that transcends circumstances.
While precise, directly attributed quotes from Smith Wigglesworth on "walking in the Spirit" are difficult to definitively pinpoint, the essence of his message shines through his life and ministry. His teachings serve as a timeless reminder of the power and transformative potential of a life yielded completely to the Holy Spirit’s leading. By embracing obedience, faith, prayer, and love, believers can experience the fullness of God’s presence and power in their lives, fulfilling the vibrant call to walk in the Spirit.
