What hinders speaking in tongues?

         Speaking in tongues is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, as described in the New Testament, particularly in Acts and 1 Corinthians. For many believers, it is a powerful expression of intimate prayer, spiritual edification, and divine communication. However, not every Christian speaks in tongues, and many wonder why they haven’t received or manifested this gift. Biblically and spiritually, several hindrances can affect the free flow of this gift. Below are key reasons why speaking in tongues may be hindered.

1. Lack of Faith

    “But without faith, it is impossible to please Him…” Hebrews 11:6

        Faith is the foundation of the Christian life. Speaking in tongues requires faith in God’s promises and in the operation of the Holy Spirit. Doubt in the authenticity of the gift or in one’s ability to receive it can block the manifestation. If someone doubts whether God still gives tongues today or feels unworthy to receive it, they may struggle to yield.

        It is better to strengthen your faith by studying scriptures about the Holy Spirit and His gifts (see 1 Corinthians 12–14). Believe that speaking in tongues is for believers today.

2. Ignorance or Misinformation

    “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.” 1 Corinthians 12:1

        Many believers do not speak in tongues simply because they do not understand the gift or its purpose. Some churches rarely teach about the Holy Spirit’s gifts, leaving many believers unaware of how tongues operate or why they matter.

        Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you. Read the book of Acts and 1 Corinthians 14 to see how early believers used this gift.

3. Fear or Intimidation

    “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” — 2 Timothy 1:7

        Some believers are afraid of losing control, sounding foolish, or being mocked. Others fear that what they speak may not be from God. This fear becomes a barrier that prevents them from yielding to the Spirit.

        Rebuke fear in prayer. Remember that every good gift comes from the Father (James 1:17), and He will not give you something harmful when you ask for the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:11–13).

4. Unbelief in the Holy Spirit’s Work

    “You always resist the Holy Spirit…” — Acts 7:51

        Some Christians struggle because they do not fully trust or believe in the work of the Holy Spirit. They try to analyze spiritual gifts with natural reasoning, which creates internal resistance.

        Ask the Lord to soften your heart and make you sensitive to His Spirit. Let go of control and allow the Spirit to lead.

5. Unconfessed Sin or Bitterness

    “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” — Psalm 66:18

        Persistent, unconfessed sin can grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). Bitterness and unforgiveness can also clog the spiritual flow, hindering sensitivity to God's voice and leading.

        Confess your sins and forgive anyone who has hurt you. A clean heart is a fertile ground for spiritual gifts to manifest.

6. Lack of Spiritual Hunger

    “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” — Matthew 5:6

        God responds to the hunger of His people. If you are indifferent about the gift of tongues or have not earnestly sought it, you may not experience it.

        Stir your desire through worship, fasting, and prayer. Ask God to increase your thirst for more of Him and for all He wants to release through you.

7. Religious Tradition and Doctrinal Barriers

    “Making the word of God of no effect through your tradition…” — Mark 7:13

        Certain denominations teach that speaking in tongues has ceased. If you’ve been exposed to such teachings, it may have planted doubt or resistance in your spirit.

        Submit to what the Bible says above traditions. God’s Word should guide your belief more than any human doctrine.

8. Overthinking and Waiting for a Forceful Feeling

    “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” — Acts 2:4

        Many wait for the Holy Spirit to take over their mouth. However, the Spirit gives utterance—you must choose to speak. It's a partnership: the Holy Spirit inspires, and you act in faith.

        When you sense the urge, begin speaking by faith. It may start with a syllable or two. Don’t suppress it. Trust that the Holy Spirit is guiding your utterance.

9. Pride or Self-Consciousness

    “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” — James 4:6

        Tongues require vulnerability. Pride—whether intellectual pride or fear of looking silly—can prevent someone from yielding fully to the Spirit.

        Humble yourself before God. Be willing to look foolish for the sake of Christ. Remember, what seems foolish to man is wisdom with God (1 Corinthians 1:27).

        Speaking in tongues is a gift, not a reward. You don’t earn it—it’s received by grace through faith. If you haven’t spoken in tongues yet, don’t be discouraged. Keep seeking God with an open and humble heart. Yield to the Holy Spirit in prayer, worship, and the Word. As you do, the rivers of living water will flow (John 7:38).