Smith Wigglesworth, a prominent figure in 20th-century Pentecostalism, left behind a legacy of faith and powerful testimonies. One quote, often paraphrased but consistently impactful, highlights the transformative power of persistence: "Faith is not a feeling, it's a decision." This seemingly simple statement holds profound implications for navigating life's challenges and unlocking our potential. This article will delve deeper into the meaning and application of this profound statement, exploring its relevance to various aspects of life.
What Does "Faith Is Not a Feeling, It's a Decision" Really Mean?
Wigglesworth's quote challenges the common misconception that faith is solely dependent on emotional experience. Many people associate faith with feelings of certainty or assurance. However, Wigglesworth asserts that faith is fundamentally a choice, a deliberate act of the will, independent of fluctuating emotions. Even when doubt creeps in, fear grips our hearts, or circumstances appear bleak, the decision to believe remains constant. It's about choosing to trust God's promises despite what we see or feel.
How Can I Apply This to My Daily Life?
This principle transcends religious boundaries and applies to all areas of life. Whether facing professional challenges, personal setbacks, or health concerns, the principle of persistent faith—or persistent effort with unwavering belief in a positive outcome—is crucial.
Overcoming Obstacles and Challenges:
Facing adversity? Wigglesworth's wisdom encourages us to choose perseverance. Doubt and fear are natural responses, but faith is a conscious decision to keep moving forward, believing in a positive outcome despite the odds. This requires consistent action, even when progress seems slow or non-existent.
Achieving Goals and Dreams:
Ambitious goals require persistent effort. Often, the path to success is filled with setbacks and frustrations. However, maintaining a firm belief in your ability to achieve your objectives, even in the face of obstacles, is essential. This "decision of faith" fuels perseverance, enabling you to overcome challenges and ultimately reach your goals.
Building Stronger Relationships:
Relationships require nurturing and commitment. Challenges are inevitable, but the decision to maintain faith and trust in your loved ones, despite disagreements or misunderstandings, strengthens the bond. This unwavering commitment strengthens connections and cultivates deeper understanding.
What if My Feelings Don't Align with My Decision?
This is where the true power of Wigglesworth's quote lies. The dissonance between feeling and faith is a common experience. It's perfectly acceptable to acknowledge doubts and fears. However, the key is to maintain the decision to believe despite these feelings. Action often precedes feeling. Taking consistent steps toward your goals, fueled by a determined will, can often lead to a shift in emotions, fostering a deeper sense of faith and confidence.
How Does Persistence Relate to Faith?
Persistence and faith are inextricably linked in this context. Persistence provides the fuel to keep moving forward despite challenges. Faith provides the conviction that the effort will ultimately bear fruit. This combination creates a powerful synergy that leads to remarkable outcomes. It's not about blind faith but about believing in your capacity to achieve your goals, coupled with the determination to work relentlessly towards them.
Can You Give Examples of Persistence Leading to Success?
History is replete with examples of individuals who achieved remarkable things through unwavering persistence. From entrepreneurs who faced countless setbacks before achieving success to athletes who dedicated years of rigorous training to reach the pinnacle of their sport, the power of persistence is undeniable. Their stories underscore the importance of choosing faith and continuing to pursue one's dreams despite the difficulties along the way.
In conclusion, Smith Wigglesworth's quote, "Faith is not a feeling, it's a decision," is a timeless reminder of the power of perseverance. It encourages us to choose belief, to maintain a firm commitment to our goals, and to persist despite adversity. It’s a call to action, urging us to tap into our inner strength and realize the incredible potential that lies within. The decision to believe, to persist, to act, can unlock transformative power in our lives.
