The Power of Prayer

The revival on the Isle of Lewis (1949–1952) is often remembered for its profound spiritual awakening, with countless lives transformed by the power of God. Central to this extraordinary move of the Spirit was the fervent and persistent prayer of believers, both young and old. The story of the revival highlights how God responds to the cries of His people and how prayer plays an indispensable role in bringing spiritual renewal to a community.

One of the most famous examples of prayer’s influence was the faith and persistence of two elderly sisters, Peggy and Christine Smith. Despite their physical limitations—Peggy was blind, and Christine was severely arthritic—the sisters were unwavering in their commitment to prayer. They pleaded with God for revival, often quoting His promises, such as Isaiah 44:3: “I will pour water on him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground.” Their faith was so strong that when evangelist Duncan Campbell declined the invitation to visit Barvas, they declared that God would bring him anyway. Their confidence was vindicated when Campbell was compelled to change his plans and journey to Lewis, where he became a central figure in the revival.

Yet, the revival was not the result of the sisters’ prayers alone. It was a community united in prayer for others. Christians regularly gathered in homes and barns to seek God. These meetings were marked by deep repentance, heartfelt cries for God’s intervention, and a sense of expectancy. A reading of Psalm 24 in one such gathering encapsulated the community’s yearning for God’s holiness: “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? He that hath clean hands and a pure heart.” This recognition of the need for purity and humility before God often led to overwhelming encounters with His presence, as people would fall to their knees in awe and repentance.

The power of prayer extended beyond structured meetings. Prayer became a way of life for the people of Barvas and surrounding areas. Spontaneous prayer broke out in homes, and believers continued praying until they felt they had “got through” to God. 

One of the most dramatic moments of the revival illustrates the supernatural power of prayer. In a house in Arnol, believers were locked in a spiritual battle during an extended prayer meeting. After hours of struggle, John Smith the blacksmith prayed, reminding God of His promise to pour water on the thirsty. At that moment, the house physically shook, and the Spirit of God fell upon the meeting. Even neighbours – who weren’t Christians – felt the impact and many came to Jesus. 

The revival on the Isle of Lewis demonstrates that prayer is the foundation of spiritual awakening. It shows how God honours the fervent, faith-filled prayers of His people and uses them to bring about profound transformation. Through their dependence on God and persistence in prayer, the believers of Lewis experienced the fulfilment of His promises in an extraordinary way.

Adapted from “Sounds from Heaven,” by Colin and Mary Peckham. If you are interested in receiving a copy of the book, please contact Rev. David Sim. 

Rev. David, Parish Minister, comments… 

The Isle of Lewis revival shows how prayer can transform individuals and entire communities. Though large-scale revivals are rare and an act of God, the lessons remain practical. Prayer is not just routine; it is a way to seek God’s presence and invite His Spirit. Revival in Lewis began with small groups uniting in persistent, expectant prayer, proving that even small gatherings with committed hearts can lead to profound change.

Prayer also transforms those who pray. On Lewis, people experienced a deeper awareness of God’s holiness and personal renewal way before the broader community was touched. Prayer is not just about seeking answers but about letting God shape our hearts and lives. Through prayer, we grow in faith and align with God’s purposes.

Prayer can ripple outward, impacting those beyond the praying community. In Lewis, personal transformation spread, leading many to repentance and faith. For our church, this reminds us that our prayers can influence our families, our neighbours, and even those who have yet to encounter God. As we prioritise prayer, we open ourselves to being part of God’s greater work, trusting Him to bring His kingdom closer.

David is on Nevis Radio’s “Thought for the Day” from February 10th 2025, talking about prayer.