“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.” — 1 Corinthians 14:14 (NKJV)
I was conducting a discipleship class some years ago, and the subject of tongues came up. I taught on the importance of speaking in tongues and why it is necessary for a Christian to engage in it. When I was done, a young lady asked me, “Is it compulsory for every Christian to speak in tongues?” I said yes, because Jesus said, “…these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues…” — Mark 16:17 (NKJV).
Then she asked, “How is it possible for you to speak a language you do not understand? How would you know if you are insulting yourself?” Months later, another lady met me and asked if she was speaking in tongues, how would she know if she wasn’t cursing herself? A young man later echoed the exact same concern. I realized that many people are skeptical about speaking in tongues because they feel they cannot continue speaking a language they do not understand.
This mindset has robbed many of God’s people of the blessings they would receive if they spoke in tongues. They have allowed themselves to be deceived into thinking that when they speak in tongues, they are cursing themselves. However, that is a lie from the devil. You must reject this lie as a Christian if you want to tap into the vast blessings that tongues bring into our lives. Choose to go with what the Bible says, not what the devil is telling you in your mind.
First Corinthians 14:2 specifically says, “…he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.” — 1 Corinthians 14:2 (NKJV). This lets us know that when you speak in tongues, the people around you do not understand it. Even you will not understand it unless the Holy Spirit gives you the interpretation. Therefore, whether you understand it or not, the most important thing to remember is that you are communicating with God, and He understands you perfectly.
When this becomes your focus, you will soar high in the realm of the Spirit and do mighty exploits. So, do not let anything stop you from praying in tongues. The fact that you may not understand what you are saying does not mean what you are doing is a waste of time. You are making a significant impact in the realm of the Spirit. If you continue diligently and passionately, the Holy Spirit will start giving you interpretations from time to time. Do not stop praying in tongues. Praise God!
Today’s Rhema
When you pray in tongues, you may not understand what you are saying, but God understands you perfectly, so do not stop praying in tongues!
Prayer
Father, I am grateful for this wonderful truth. I receive the grace, wisdom, and stamina to pray in tongues like never before. As I do this, the blessings of praying in tongues are manifesting heavily in my life, in Jesus’ name. Amen!
