Why is the average Christian not filled with the Holy Spirit?

Lack of knowledge. The average Christian continues to live in spiritual defeat because they are not being intentional to be filled with the Spirit, which results in lack of faith.

Most Christians do not understand that from the moment of spiritual birth, God made His power available to enable us to go on growing toward maturity in Christ.

Most Christians do not understand how to draw upon the supernatural resources of God by faith. As a result they live in self-imposed spiritual poverty, not knowing and experiencing the great riches and resources of Christ as revealed in the Bible through the Holy Spirit.

Because of unbelief. Many people are afraid of God; they do not trust Him. They do not believe in His trustworthiness. Trust is another word for faith.

In trials, we can sometimes live as though God does not exist. Even though we give up service to Him, we can sometimes refuse to believe His promises that are recorded in His Word.

Many feel that God will require the impossible of them; they doubt the extent of God's unconditional love. Many are afraid that God will change their plans, require them to give up all their wealth, take all the happiness from their lives, and make them endure tragedies. But God is loving and concerned with His children. He has proven this over and over again.