The Gifts of the Holy Spirit and Coming to God Broken, Not Perfect

One of the most freeing truths of the Christian faith is this: God does not ask us to come to Him perfected—He asks us to come surrendered. The Holy Spirit meets us not at the finish line, but at the altar of humility. When we come to God broken, honest, and dependent, we open our hearts to the transforming work of the Spirit and the gifts He lovingly gives.

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Given by Grace

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are divine empowerments given to believers for the building up of the Church and the glory of God. Scripture teaches that these gifts are not earned by spiritual achievement or moral perfection—they are given by grace.

Some gifts strengthen understanding and faith, such as wisdom, knowledge, and discernment. Others empower action and service, such as faith, healing, miracles, and helps. Still others build and encourage the Church through prophecy, teaching, tongues, and interpretation. Each gift is given according to God’s will, not human effort.

The Holy Spirit distributes gifts uniquely and intentionally. No one receives them all, and no one is without value. Every believer has a role, and every gift matters.

Why God Invites the Broken

God consistently chooses the humble, the weak, and the surrendered—not because brokenness is the goal, but because humility makes room for God’s power.

When we come to God pretending to be strong, self-sufficient, or “put together,” we rely on ourselves. But when we come broken—aware of our need—we rely fully on Him. Scripture reminds us that God’s strength is made perfect in weakness.

Brokenness produces:

• Dependence on God rather than self

• Teachability and openness to the Spirit

• Genuine repentance and transformation

• A deeper experience of grace

God does not despise a broken heart. He heals it.

Why This Matters So Much

Coming to God broken is essential because the gifts of the Holy Spirit flow through surrendered vessels, not polished performances. Pride blocks intimacy with God, but humility invites His presence.

When believers try to operate in spiritual gifts without surrender, it can lead to burnout, confusion, or misuse. But when gifts flow from a heart that knows its need for God, they are used with love, wisdom, and accountability.

God’s goal is not to make us impressive—it is to make us Christlike.

The Holy Spirit Restores, Then Empowers

The beautiful order of God’s work is this:

1. We come broken

2. God heals and restores

3. The Holy Spirit fills and empowers

4. Gifts are released to bless others

This keeps the focus where it belongs—on Jesus, not on us.

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Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come to You just as we are—broken, imperfect, and in need of Your grace. Thank You that You do not turn us away, but welcome us with love. We ask You to fill us with Your Holy Spirit. Heal what is wounded, soften what is hardened, and humble what is proud. Release Your gifts in our lives according to Your will, so that we may serve others and glorify Jesus. Teach us to depend on You fully and to walk in obedience and love.

In the precious and powerful name of Jesus,

Amen.

Praise Jesus! 🙌 Amen!

T

Sources

• 1 Corinthians 12:4–11

• Romans 12:3–8

• 2 Corinthians 12:9–10

• Psalm 51:17

• James 4:6

• Ephesians 4:11–13

• John 7:37–39