We are in a series talking about the Holy Spirit. We have already mentioned the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and here we will share more on this topic regarding the keys to receiving this baptism and some hindrances to receiving it.

Let’s read Acts 2:1-4, “when the first disciples received the baptism. When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. ² Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. ³ Then they saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. ⁴ All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” (NIV) Other verses, such as Acts 2:38-39: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins,” Peter replied, “and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ³⁹ The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” (NIV) From these verses we know that this baptism is for everyone and that God is baptizing His people in the Spirit everywhere today. It is God’s will for your life. You may be wondering, what must I do to receive this blessing from God?

First, you must be a Christian, which is basic, but if you have not received the Lord as your Savior, this will be your first step. If you are a Christian but are living in sin, you must ask for forgiveness for this before asking for the baptism in the Spirit. But if you have already asked for forgiveness, you are ready to receive this baptism.

Then it is time to ask the Lord to fill you with the Spirit. You must ask with faith because it is what the Lord wants for your life. Look at Luke 11:13, “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (NIV) You just need to ask and receive.

Then when you are alone with God or with other believers, you can ask for this blessing from God, believing that you will receive it. Sometimes in our churches there are special services with this focus on baptism in the Spirit, and they pray that people will receive it. This would be a very good time to seek this blessing. But you don’t have to wait; you can seek and ask for it today. If you want to receive it, again, if there is sin, you must ask for forgiveness. And then just ask the Lord to fill you. It might be good to spend a few minutes praising and thanking the Lord as you enter His presence and focusing on Him. Then ask for it and receive it by faith.

One mistake or hindrance in receiving it is that we think the Lord will take our voice and tongue with force and speak through us. But it is more like something together with Him and us. We need to speak, and He will provide the words through the Spirit. Another thing is that we cannot speak in two languages at the same time. In other words, if you are asking for this baptism, you can start praising in English, but when you ask for this filling, you have to stop speaking English and start speaking in these new words from the Spirit that you will not understand, but at the same time, it will be your own voice saying these words. In other words, you and God working together. Now, you may ask, “How do I do this?” Through the Spirit. He will help you and you will receive.

I began to ask for this baptism in September 1977. But I did not speak in tongues until November of that same year because I did not understand well this matter that I had to speak out. I stood with my mouth closed waiting for God to control me, but I learned that I had to speak by faith and God then supplied the words.

Perhaps some of you are discouraged and don’t want to ask for this gift because you have done so several times and haven’t received it, and so you think it’s not God’s will for your life. But I want to encourage you because it is God’s will, and you can receive it. Perhaps it would be good to pray with a friend who is filled with the Spirit, and he or she can pray with you. Or perhaps it’s better to pray alone with God. Whatever you prefer and whatever is most comfortable for you. Another good thing is that every time we seek this, we receive beautiful and profound touches from Him even if we don’t speak in tongues yet.

It is good to study the Bible and good books on this subject and to talk to people who know a lot about it, perhaps your pastor or leaders in your church if you have questions. You should read Acts 2, 8, 10, and 19. Each of these chapters talks about people receiving this baptism. Again, it is God’s will and is given by God’s grace to everyone. You too can receive this gift.