Luke 11:13 is one of the scriptures many misapply and misunderstand about receiving the Holy Spirit. There, Jesus said, “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” But then, He wasn’t talking to Christians, but to those under the Old Covenant. Anyone could have received the Holy Spirit by asking; but sadly, most never did because they didn’t ask.
Jesus said ask and it shall be given unto you (Luke 11:9). But after the New Testament was effected, from the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Word never told anyone to ask for the Holy Spirit. What we’re told is how the apostles ministered the Holy Spirit to people; they “…prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost” (Acts 8:15); and some received without prayer (Acts 10:44-46). It’s actually pointless to ask God for the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is one of the cardinal gifts of God—to all men.
By simply obeying His call to believe the Gospel, anyone can receive Him. He said in Acts 2:17, “Andit shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh….” See also, Acts 5:32, Hebrews 5:9, Romans 2:8. Notice He didn’t say, “I will pour out of my Spirit upon all Christians, but upon all flesh.” This is the Father’s blessing. It has come now. Without the Holy Spirit, you can’t live the Christian life.
God desires that you walk in the fullness of the Spirit and live righteously and victoriously in this present world. If you haven’t received the Holy Spirit since you’ve been born again, Galatians 3:14 says, “…that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Simply say, “In the Name of Jesus Christ, I open my heart now, and I receive the Holy Spirit.” Then by faith, receive as simply as you received Christ. While thanking Him, you may even now be filled with the Spirit, speaking with tongues or prophesying. Glory to God!
