The Healing Light

by Agnes Sanford

First published in 1947, Agnes Sanford’s “The Healing Light” is a classic of Christian literature and has been widely influential in the movement to recognize the healing power of prayer. A renowned religious writer and the founder of the Inner Healing Movement, which seeks to heal people’s emotions and memories through prayer and spirituality, Sanford and her work have had a profound impact on the way prayer is viewed by the faithful. In her groundbreaking work “The Healing Light,” Sanford takes a scientific and practical approach that is accessible to all readers and shows the incredible and positive changes that prayer can bring to one’s life. Sanford shows that God’s love and energy is limitless and once one connects to that power through prayer, one can find creativity, happiness, and healing of both the spiritual and physical kind. Sanford’s message is that this healing may be found by all of the faithful. She instructs that with an open heart, humble attitude, and a faithful devotion to the laws of God, His infinite power and love are available to all that seek it.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Spirituality, Prayer, Christian Living, Nonfiction, Religion

196 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1963

Reviews

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Mom had a 1947 era hardcover edition of this book that came into my hands after she passed away. Amazingly (or maybe not so) I found an old black & white photo stuck in the pages of my Mom as a young woman.

I've turned to this book many times over the years but this is the first attempt at reading it all. A great deal of it provides me with peace and hope, especially when my anxiety level reaches yet another zenith. Written 63 years ago, it feels dated only in it's historical references; the spirituality and faith within has never been needed more.

[Justin Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this more out of historical interest than as a guidebook to divine healing. Sanford was an Episcopal minister's wife and published this book first in 1947. I found it interesting that she was practicing healing as a mainline Protestant (rather than as a Pentecostal or Christian Scientist) well before the Charismatic Movement of the 60s and 70s. The book is part testimonial and part practical guide to praying for healing. The testimonial aspect is the most dated part of the book. Sanford's ideas about healing are very matter-of-fact and are delivered in a very practical and encouraging manner. Her theology is very Christocentric while veering away from emotionalism. A unique aspect of her teachings is that healing is for every person regardless of their faith or lack of faith. Right doctrinal adherence or knowledge is not a prerequisite to experience healing in her opinion. So far so good. What I do find disturbing (as well as fascinating) is how similar her teachings are to the word-faith movement within Pentecostalism as well as New Thought. Some of those teachings around healing seem so self assured and have a dark side to them (especially when one fails to receive a substantial experience of healing.)
So while I am wary of many of her ideas, the last few chapters of the book made it all worth it to me. She talks in depth about the power of forgiveness, emotional healing, intercessory prayer and collective (representative) repentance. I think she was way ahead of her times on these things. Well worth a discerning read.

[Debra Torgerson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for thought.

I found this book to be interesting for sure. Not being either Presbyterian or Episcopal And only vaguely familiar with there belief systems. I find that there is truth to be found in every belief system. I did find it here in this book. I only gave it three stars because I could not agree with everything. My beliefs have changed over the last few years through study and the leading of the Holy Spirit. I do believe in healing that it has been given to us and it is the will of the Father that we are to be well. I just had a problem with the idea of us being able to "repent" and "atone " for another person's or nations sins. Christ said It Is Finished because It was. He took away the sin of the world. We need to believe that and share the good news so that others can receive the forgiveness provided. I do not doubt that GOD Meets us were we are. I do not doubt that Ms Sanford had these wonderful results in Her life with sharing healing.
Would I recommend the book. Yes It is has many good things in it. Seeing our prayers as answered is so true. But I do not agree with other things. You read this book and draw from it what the Father wants you to receive and set the rest aside. As I know it is okay not to agree with everything but never throw it all out because of a few things. We all receive differently and are in different places in our walk. I Wii say that some things I don't believe now I use to. And am sure The Lord is still working in my life and everyone's to get us were he wants us. Enjoy the book.

[Lena · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. First copyrighted in 1947. All about spiritual healing. Powerful stuff. Helpful reminders of the power that is available to us via Jesus. Good tips for praying for healing for ourselves and others.

[Neil Saltmarsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have read on prayer and healing. Agnes Sanford seems to be one who learned directly from the Lord in the Spirit. There are so many points she makes that has reignited my prayer. I particularly like the last chapter of praying for the nations. While in churches this can seem like a time to drop off, the sacrificial way of praying that she suggests, is one where love sprouts forth. In light of other comments made about the theology etc, I am of the opinion that there is a great gulf between what Jesus did and does and how Christians demonstrate the preaching of the gospel and healing people. Healing is a major part of what God does and I have read this because Agnes demonstrated this aspect of Christian ministry effectively over a number of years. I hope to aspire to preach the Kingdom of God and heal just like Jesus.

[AmyLu Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story.

This is on my list of 5 favorite books to read when you're serious about healing and the Bible: https://amylu-riley.com/5-favorite-bo...

I also wrote a blog post about my discussion with Sanford's writing, which challenged me deeply and stretched me in a good way: https://amylu-riley.com/blog/agnes-sa...

I was also taken by how integral and vital writing was to her spiritual life and physical well-being, which I talk about in my list of favorite books for the writing life: https://amylu-riley.com/3-of-my-favor...

[Luke J. Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very intriguing book, and one I was unsure of at first. If I were to sum up the book in a few words: Interesting, enlightening and sometimes mildly concerning.

By the end of the book my opinion of Agnes had changed and I think it proper to probably call her a modern mystic, but by no means a theologian! If you like your doctrine neatly boxed up, Agnes will trample all over that with her often "unorthodox" phrases and way of describing spiritual things and her abundant names to refer to Jesus as.

If you can get past that, and really into the core of what she's trying to teach and get across, you'll see that she had nothing but the love of God for everyone she crossed paths with.

[Adam Shields · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short Review: I am really mixed on this. I spent three months reading it because I was frustrated with it, but there were things that I think are helpful in it. Mostly the helpful stuff was toward the end and was about the role of confessions and the sacraments in strengthening the believer and the last chapter about praying for healing of the nations. I do think some of the earlier parts were helpful, but there was a lot that was just bad theology. It was also a very modernist take on prayer trying to take it apart scientifically and treating prayer as a technology that we just do not yet fully understand. I think that is the wrong approach to take when thinking about prayer.

And specifically in regard to healing, this directly falls into the problem of placing blame on either the healer or the one being healed if the healing does not occur. Some of the highlights you can find show examples of this.

I do think it is useful to read books from a different era. This is one that is over 70 years old and still in print. I picked it up because it was mentioned in a biography of Dallas Willard.

My longer review is on my blog at http://bookwi.se/the-healing-light-by...

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first began to read this little book, I was skeptical. I thought maybe it would be new-agey or it would offer a complicated way to prayer. In the end, I loved this book. Agnes provides a very simple, straightforward method for healing prayer. Words need to be simple and direct, laying on hands is best but she offers suggestions for intercessional prayer, and the main thing is that you have the believe. Your faith needs to be strong. The person who is praying has to believe in the healing power of God, and it helps if the person that needs healing also believes. This little book is packed with stories, suggestions, advice, and motivation. By the end of this book, I felt confident in Agnes and her suggestions, she definitely followed the healer path and she had much wisdom to share. If you would like a boost of motivation and plentiful wise advice on how to start praying for healing, this book is a great place to start.

[Adam Gellert · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book six stars I would! I can't believe I only recently heard about this classic from Agnes Sanford, the "grandmother" of the Charismatic Movement, and it was just incredible!

The book is so well written and practical, and has a great mix of inspirational healing stories and instruction for readers on how to see the same result (while respecting that God is still God, and controls the outcome of all healing). I walked away from the book inspired to step up my prayer life and follow Agnes' example, and I plan to share this with my fellow healing team members at my church. A must-read!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still in middle of it but I think I get the gist. I love mystics. I love that Agnes Sanford is a contemporary and she puts forth a good argument and pretty convincing path. The language and whisperings of dogma are a bit outdated, for me at least, but she is the generation of my grandmother, so that's to be expected. Also reading he autobiography.

[Tami · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book about prayer and healing. I have learned a lot about prayer in my life and have used some of the processes of prayer in this book but it taught me sooooo much more!!! I am excited to repent and more fully let Christ into my heart and body so that I can be healed by God and learn to help others heal!

[Gene Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most insightful book on divine healing I have ever read. It is a simply worded how to book of connecting to God's gift of wholeness for us. I have read it over more than four times and continue to do so, gaining new awareness and insights into the goodness of God has for us.

[Patricia Dietz · Rating 5 out of 5]

powerful solid book on healing of every type. I've read this book twice and found my understanding of God, His profound connection to all life and the flow of His Personhood, power and love through man greatly broadened. I'm sure I'll come back to it again.

[Ali Alltop · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is this is a MUST read. Over and over again. A friend you should visit with often. A challenge to your faith and inspiration to your soul. A fuel to the flame for the deeper, more powerful things of God.

[Meshach Kanyion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Book

I give this book 5 stars because of its immense practicality. Agnes Sanford writes as one who wants others to experience what she knows. The balance between teaching and story telling is almost sermonic. I have read it, and will re-read it.

[Dean Summers · Rating 5 out of 5]

First read around 1985.

[Jackie Doss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll be reading it over and over again!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it

[Carmen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is above prayer and faith healing. The idea that I liked the most is that there is so much to be gained by confessing. I want to change that part of my life!

[Betsy Kalman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sanford is kind of folksy, but her topic is compelling. She has many anecdotes about her healing ministry.

[Bill Larrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very uplifting

This book was recommended in another great book I recently read. This book was so very uplifting and encouraging. I strongly recommend this book.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful book by a lady who had a deep Christian faith.

[Pearl Thewlis]

Thoroughly enjoyed this book I found it inspirational and felt Gods power in her writing.

[Jacob Aitken · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is a spirit to prayer, an atmosphere, a climate in which it is possible for “things to happen.” There is a “pipeline” between our spirit and the life of God. It is the life of God that makes healing possible.

Choosing objectives in prayer: choose a subject of prayer, pray about it, and then see if it succeeds. If it doesn’t succeed, try a better adjustment with God and try again. Here is how we would do it:

(1) Still yourself before God and ask him to work in you. Lay aside our worries and cares.
(2) Then we pray that God would increase in us his life-giving power.
(3) Believe that this life of God is in us and accept it by faith.
(4) Observe the light and operations of this power. Measurable objectives.
(5) Not only be specific in your prayers, but “visualize” what the answer to the prayer would look like. Sometimes--and this is true of my own life--that might not have been what I expected. You are in a conversational relationship with God. Act like it.

Sanford makes a few tantalizing remarks about how our body reacts when we pray. Habits are built into the nerves and sometimes these physical patterns must be retrained.

The Lord’s Prayer

“Hallowed be thy name” is the most practical beginning, for it connects us with the holiness of God.

Re-educating the Subconscious

She calls the subconscious “the inner control centers of our being.” That’s a much better way to say it than getting hung up in Jungian and Freudian jargon.

She anticipates neuroplasticity by identifying negative thoughts and placing them before Jesus. And she isn’t a “if you have faith you will get better” type of person. Quite the opposite. She acknowledges that faith is the one thing we don’t have in this situation. That’s why we need to train to have faith. We learn faith by practicing daily the little things on what it means to be God’s child.


Notwithstanding, I do think she is a bit naive on illness. She comes very close to Christian Science at times. She says that God never wants his children to be sick, but then she acknowledges that sometimes it is not God’s will to heal a person on his deathbed. I don’t really think you can have both. Read with caution.

Quotes:

“Joy is the heavenly ‘ok’ on the inner life of power.”

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

My husband was raised a Christian Scientist. When I began dating him it was important to me that he be a Christian. After dating him awhile, I discovered his “Christian” beliefs were nowhere even close to mine. It was important to me that we be on the same plane if we were going to be together. It was a struggle, but we made it. As I began to read Sanford’s book, I almost quit in the opening chapters. My husband called her ideas junior varsity metaphysics. I called them cult-like. Anyway, we continued on. (We read a book a month together, reading to one another. This was our March book.) Once we got almost halfway, the book started to come together for us. She had many Mary Baker Eddy ideas, but Christ was in His rightful place as fully God and fully man not as a mere human who figured out how to heal Himself and every human can learn to do the same which is the Christian Science view. Sanford places healing within the realm of human activity, but the human is ONLY a channel through whom Christ works. That is a key tenet that separates the sheep from the goats. Once I realized Sanford’s foundation was solid, the rest of the book was a joy to read. I didn’t always agree with her, but it was still a thoughtful and engaging book, especially reading it 73 years after the book was published. As a globalist, she projected what a wonderful world we would live in if we would all learn how to love one another. I say, “Yes, but...” For example, she said we would never have seen Pearl Harbor if we’d have just treated the Japanese better during World War II. This was a bit too simplistic for me, but, hey, she is not alone. Marianne Williamson had such a platform in her bid for the presidency 2020.

[Jo Ann]

I was intrigued about an older book about healing prayer that was also mentioned in Dallas Willard’s biography. I found a lot of interesting ideas in this book I look forward to using. However, at times it veered toward the “health” of a “health and wealth gospel.” There must be truth of God’s healing, using his body (his church) to heal through but also the truth that an unhealed person is not lacking faith...indeed, this is the struggle with any conversation about prayer and healing.

[Rebecca]

I can’t remember the last time I read a book so slowly. It’s less than 200 pages. I had to keep stopping and thinking. It makes just enough sense that I’m willing to keep reading but then she’s so far out there and SO different from what I thought I believed. Yet, I’ve had some experiences that line up with what she describes.
Next time hopefully I’ll read with a group so I can discuss.
I just don’t know what to make of it currently.

[Timothy Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really important take-aways: (1) If our healing ministry is ineffective, we are allowed to notice, and we are allowed to wonder if perhaps there is something we could be doing differently. (2) "Let us not wash our hands, Pilate-like, and say 'Thy will be done.' Let us discern the will of God, and do it." Indeed.
This book is well worth a careful, discerning read.

[Barbie N · Rating 4 out of 5]

I take a lot of value from this book. I think if a reader some how missed the authors emphasis that everything is based on intimacy with God, listening to Him, waiting on Him and obeying Him then it could take you down some false roads. I am willing to experiment in my prayer life, and this gave me some new ways to pray.