Speaking in tongues

Speaking in tongues is a step of faith to speak in a language most often that is not understandable to others. It is for the edification of the individual spirit and not the mind (1 Corinthians 14:2). Though it does not bring about understanding to the mind, it brings strength and comfort to our spirit. Paul goes on to say that when we pray in tongues our spirit prays but our minds are unfruitful (1 Corinthians 14:14-15). So he says when we pray or sing in the Spirit we also should consciously make an effort to pray or sing with understanding. Some of Pauls spiritually edifying and meaningful prayers for wisdom and understanding are in the Epistles he wrote to the churches (Eph 1:17-18;Philipp 1:9-11; Col 1:9).

Speaking in tongues has been a gift that brings unity and enthuisiasm among many christian groups today. However St. Paul says that if someone can interpret what you speak in tongues about then it brings about edification of the body, mind and spirit. This is when through interpretation of the tongue it becomes a gift similar to prophecy (1Corinthians 12:10). What spiritual gift is it that people have that can inspire us and draw us to them? What is it that can cause us to be lead by them to reach heights we have never ventured out to climb? Is it the soundness of their faith, the peace that exudes from them, the sense of joy, the life of challenge? 

 In the gospel of Mark when Jesus commissioned his disciples to go into all the world and preach the good news, he said that one of the signs that will accompany those who believe is that they will speak in new tongues (Mark 16:17). When Jesus spoke of speaking in tongues, did He mean the spiritual gift of speaking in tongues or a natural gift of speaking a new language to spread the gospel? 

 Depending on which stage of our life we are in, we have certain natural gifts and abilities. Through the empowering of the Holy Spirit we will be able to use it effectively for the growth and development of the Body of Christ. Today three major gifts of the Holy Spirit are emphasized among end of days evangelicals and Pentecostals are: Speaking in tongues, Prophecy, and Healing. So we come to Christ in prayer and ask for wisdom and understanding to use all our gifts and talents to work within us and through us to strengthen and encourage those we come in contact with.