What are other barrier that stop me speaking in tongues?
From a Pentecostal perspective, including that of Donald Gee and other scholars, the issue is typically not that the Holy Spirit chooses not to baptize certain people, but rather that people themselves may face barriers to receiving.
God’s Desire to Baptize All Believers
The Pentecostal understanding is that the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a gift available to all believers. Acts 2:39 says:
"The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
This suggests that the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is not limited to a select few but is meant for all who believe. Pentecostal theology teaches that God is not withholding the Holy Spirit but that some individuals struggle to receive due to certain hindrances.
Human Barriers to Receiving the Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Instead of the Holy Spirit choosing not to baptize someone, Pentecostals believe that it is often human factors that delay or prevent receiving. These can include:
- Unbelief or Doubt – Not having faith that the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is for them.
- Fear – Worrying about losing control or being deceived.
- Unconfessed Sin or Lack of Surrender – Holding onto things that prevent full openness to the Spirit.
- Intellectualism or Overthinking – Trying to figure it out logically instead of receiving by faith.
- Past Experiences or Church Tradition – Being influenced by teachings that discourage or reject tongues.
- Not Yielding to the Spirit – Expecting the Holy Spirit to take control rather than cooperating in faith.
God’s Timing vs. Human Readiness
Some Pentecostals acknowledge that there can be an element of divine timing, where God knows when a person is truly ready. However, the general teaching is that God is always willing to baptize believers in the Holy Spirit and that any delay is usually due to human factors rather than God's reluctance.
Encouragement for Those Who Haven’t Received Yet
If someone has not received the Baptism in the Holy Spirit yet, Pentecostal leaders like Donald Gee encourage them to:
- Seek God in faith, believing His promise is for them.
- Surrender completely to the Holy Spirit.
- Pray persistently, not giving up.
- Step out in faith when prompted, especially in speaking in tongues.