D.L. Moody Biography
Early Life and Family
Dwight Lyman Moody, known as D.L. Moody, was born on February 5, 1837, in Northfield, Massachusetts, USA. He belonged to a simple farming family. His father, Edwin Moody, died suddenly when Dwight was only four years old. His mother was left to raise nine children alone. The family lived in poverty and struggled for survival.
Because of these hardships, young Dwight could not get much formal education. Instead, he worked in the fields and later took a job as a shoe salesman. His main desire was to earn money and build a better life. But God was preparing him for something greater.
Salvation Experience
At the age of 17, D.L. Moody came to know Christ in a personal way. He was invited to a Sunday School class by Edward Kimball, a faithful teacher. Kimball later visited the shoe shop where Moody worked and shared the Gospel with him. That day, Dwight accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior.
Moody later described that day:
“The morning I was saved, everything looked new. The sun was brighter, the birds seemed to sing sweeter, and I felt as if the whole world was rejoicing with me.”
This moment changed his life forever.
Early Ministry Work
After his conversion, Moody began to share the Gospel with others immediately. He focused especially on children living in poor neighborhoods. He would gather them every Sunday and take them to church.
He also reached out to drunkards, gamblers, and broken families, telling them about Jesus and praying for them. Within three years, Moody gathered over one thousand children into Sunday School.
Finally, he left his shoe business and gave his whole life to ministry.
Marriage and Family
In 1862, Dwight Moody married Emma Revell. She was a strong supporter of his ministry. God blessed them with three children. Even though Moody traveled often, he never neglected his family.
Spiritual Growth and Revival Ministry
Moody was a man of prayer. He spent many hours in God’s presence, asking for wisdom and strength. In 1871, he began praying for the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Soon, he received a powerful touch from God that transformed his ministry.
He started preaching with great boldness. Thousands of people came to his revival meetings. In some gatherings, more than 50,000 people attended.
Moody also traveled to England, where he met great preachers like Charles Spurgeon and George Müller. His simple but powerful messages touched hearts, and many came to Christ.
Character and Humility
Even though D.L.Moody became one of the most famous evangelists of his time, he remained humble. Once, someone asked him how many people were saved through his preaching. Moody smiled and said:
“I don’t know. The Lamb’s Book of Life is not in my keeping.”
His humility and sincerity made him a respected leader around the world.
Educational Institutions and Social Work
D.L. Moody strongly believed in training future leaders. In 1879, he opened a Bible College for women. In 1881, he started Mount Hermon School for Boys. In 1894, he launched a Christian magazine.
He personally helped poor students by paying their school fees. He also cared for the sick and the needy. His ministry touched not only spiritual lives but also social needs.
Faith During Difficult Times
D.L . Moody’s faith remained strong during crises. Once, he was traveling on a ship with 700 people when it faced a serious accident. While everyone was afraid, Moody prayed and encouraged them. Soon, another ship came and rescued them safely.
Final Years and Death
Moody continued preaching until the last years of his life. His ministry brought revival to America, England, and many other countries. Thousands of churches were strengthened. Millions heard the Gospel through his work.
On December 22, 1899, Dwight Lyman Moody passed away at the age of 62. His final words showed his strong faith and love for heaven.
Famous Quote
Moody once said:
“If God offered me the whole world, I would reject it and choose to be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
This statement reveals his heart and priorities.
Legacy
D.L. Moody’s life is a testimony of God’s power. From a poor farm boy, he became one of the greatest evangelists of the 19th century. His schools, writings, and ministry still influence millions today.
His life reminds us that God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things if they surrender completely to Him.