Humble Beginnings in Yorkshire
Smith Wigglesworth was born on June 8, 1859, in Menston, Yorkshire, England, into a modest family. From an early age, he worked various jobs, including as a plumber, to support his family. His early exposure to Christianity came through Methodist meetings he attended with his grandmother. However, it was not until later in life that Smith fully embraced his faith.
Marriage Deepens His Faith
In 1882, Smith married Polly Featherstone, a devout Christian and Salvation Army member, who played a pivotal role in nurturing his spiritual journey. Polly's influence was instrumental in deepening Smith's commitment to his faith, setting the stage for the profound changes that would follow.
A significant turning point in Smith's life occurred in 1907 during the Sunderland Revival in England. There, he experienced what he described as the baptism in the Holy Spirit, marked by speaking in tongues for the first time. This experience was transformative, igniting within him a profound belief in the power of the Holy Spirit. As Smith himself often declared, "I am a thousand times bigger on the inside than on the outside," illustrating his conviction that God had radically transformed him from within.
Before this spiritual empowerment, Smith was known for his temper and lack of formal education. But afterward, he was recognized for his unwavering faith and boldness, embarking on a healing ministry that would reach people worldwide. His evangelical campaigns were marked by miraculous healings, with attendees recounting stories of divine intervention through Jesus, though many of these accounts remain unverifiable by independent sources.
Smith's personal transformation was further tested when his beloved wife Polly passed away in 1913. Despite this profound loss, he continued his ministry with renewed vigor, often stating that he felt her encouragement during his services. Through every challenge, Smith's faith remained steadfast, encapsulated in his mantra, "Only believe, only believe; all things are possible, only believe." His life and ministry serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith in Jesus, who he credited for every miracle and healing.
Smith Wigglesworth's story is a reminder of how one man's deep commitment to his faith can lead to a life that impacts countless others, always giving glory to Jesus for every act of healing and transformation.
