Chapter 9 - A Plumber Predicts

Bill's Encounter with Smith Wigglesworth

• After the war, Bill's unit was posted back to England, and he became determined to meet Smith Wigglesworth, a famous evangelist who lived in Bradford, Yorkshire.

Smith Wigglesworth's Background

• Wigglesworth was 86 years old, a former plumber, and a part-time Christian worker who was baptized with the Holy Spirit at 48, which gave him tireless evangelistic zeal.
• He was known for his faith, and God had wrought many miracles through him.

The Meeting

• Bill received three days of leave and a train ticket to visit Wigglesworth.
• Bill was nervous and had high expectations of meeting Wigglesworth, but was surprised to find that he was an ordinary-looking mortal.

Conversation with Wigglesworth

• Wigglesworth asked Bill several probing questions, including "What are you going to do with your life?" and challenged Bill about pride in his heart.
• Wigglesworth instructed Bill to remove a ring from his finger, which Bill had been proud of, symbolizing his pride.

Prophecy and Advice

• Wigglesworth spoke in tongues, followed by an interpretation, stating that Bill would go to Colombia to witness for Jesus Christ, but would need to fight against the devil and his powers.
• Wigglesworth advised Bill to prepare for spiritual warfare and to keep in touch with God, prophesying that Bill would go to many parts of the world and would have a wife.

Conclusion

• The meeting with Wigglesworth had a profound impact on Bill, and he knew that he needed to continue a life of prayer and faith.