DWIGHT L.MOODY-THE GREATEST LAYMAN (PART 9)

An Inner Struggle

As the Civil War erupted, Dwight faced a struggle of his own. He felt called to leave business behind and dedicate himself to full-time ministry. Years later, he would reflect on this experience and other times when God called him to greater service:

“Whenever God has been calling me to higher service, there has always been a conflict with my will. I have fought against it, but God’s will has been done instead of mine. When I came to Jesus Christ, I had a terrible battle to surrender my will, and to take God’s will.

“When I gave up business, I had another battle for three months; I fought against it. It was a terrible battle. But oh! how many times I have thanked God that I gave up my will and took God’s will.”

READ ALSO: WILLIAM AND CATHERINE (PART 17)

A Quiet Transition

Once Dwight settled the struggle and decided to pursue full-time mission work, he acted quickly and quietly. He gave notice at work and informed his landlady that he would be moving out.

To stretch his savings, he began living as frugally as possible. He kept his humble living conditions a secret because he did not want anyone to pity him.

Farwell eventually discovered that Dwight slept on chairs he had pushed together at the local YMCA. Dwight also did some janitorial work there. Deeply moved by his friend’s situation, Farwell vowed that Dwight would never lack support as long as he could provide it.

A Heart’s Desire

Dwight feared that his extreme commitment and lack of income might discourage Emma Revell. Instead, they strengthened her resolve. She “promised to cast her lot with his,” which greatly warmed Dwight’s heart. He had gradually fallen in love with Emma and hoped to make her his wife one day.

At just twenty-four, Dwight took a remarkable step of faith. He entered full-time mission work without seeking ordination or a pulpit. Instead, he continued the ministry he had already established in The Sands.

In fact, Dwight would never receive ordination throughout his years of ministry. He was not seeking a salaried church position to pay his bills. His desire was to devote himself fully to the work he believed God had called him to do.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Tale Tuesday 077

Date:   27th February, 2024
Title: : Dwight L. Moody – The Greatest Layman (Part 9)
Source:  The Azusa Street Revival
Author: Roberts Liardon