THE BENEFITS OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES

Title: THE BENEFITS OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 14:2
"For 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."

Supporting Texts:
Acts 2:4, Jude 1:20, Romans 8:26-27, Mark 16:17, 1 Corinthians 14:4

INTRODUCTION:
Speaking in tongues is a unique gift of the Holy Spirit, given for the edification and empowerment of believers. This supernatural language allows believers to connect with God in a profound way, edifying their spirit and deepening their prayer life. Though sometimes misunderstood, speaking in tongues is a powerful tool that strengthens faith, aligns us with God’s will, and brings spiritual renewal. In this study, we will explore the benefits of speaking in tongues and its role in the life of a believer.

1. DIRECT COMMUNICATION WITH GOD
Speaking in tongues allows believers to communicate directly with God, bypassing human limitations.

a) Speaking Mysteries to God:
Through tongues, we express divine mysteries known only to God (1 Corinthians 14:2).

b) A Heartfelt Prayer Language:
Tongues enable the believer to express their heart to God in a way words cannot (Romans 8:26).

c) Uninterrupted Communion:
This language allows continuous communion with God without human interference (1 Corinthians 14:2).

d) Expression Beyond Words:
Through tongues, believers can express spiritual needs and emotions that go beyond their understanding (Romans 8:26).

Biblical Example: On the day of Pentecost, the disciples spoke directly to God in new languages, glorifying Him (Acts 2:4, 11).

2. PERSONAL EDIFICATION AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH
Speaking in tongues builds up the believer's spirit, leading to inner strength and spiritual maturity.

a) Spiritual Refreshing and Renewal:
Tongues refresh the spirit, bringing renewal to those who are weary (Isaiah 28:11-12).

b) Strengthening the Inner Man:
As we pray in tongues, our spirit is edified and strengthened (1 Corinthians 14:4).

c) Spiritual Boldness and Confidence:
Speaking in tongues fills believers with boldness to stand firm in their faith (Acts 4:31).

d) Increased Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit:
Regularly praying in tongues increases spiritual sensitivity, making believers more receptive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance (Jude 1:20).

Biblical Example: Paul frequently spoke in tongues, and he attributed much of his spiritual growth and strength to this practice (1 Corinthians 14:18).

3. PRAYING GOD’S PERFECT WILL
Speaking in tongues aligns the believer’s prayers with God’s perfect will, even when they do not know what to pray.

a) Praying According to God’s Plan:
The Holy Spirit intercedes through us, aligning our prayers with God’s will (Romans 8:27).

b) Breaking Limitations in Prayer:
When words are insufficient, tongues help believers pray beyond their understanding (1 Corinthians 14:14-15).

c) Spirit-Led Prayers:
The Holy Spirit directs the prayers, ensuring they are effective and aligned with God’s purpose (Romans 8:26).

d) Eliminating Selfish Desires in Prayer:
Speaking in tongues purifies prayer from selfish motives, focusing on God’s desires (James 4:3).

Biblical Example: Paul’s prayers were Spirit-led, often guided by the Holy Spirit's wisdom and knowledge (Romans 8:26-27).

4. SPIRITUAL WARFARE AND VICTORY
Speaking in tongues is a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare, equipping believers to overcome spiritual challenges.

a) Strengthening for Battle:
Praying in tongues prepares and strengthens believers for spiritual battles (Ephesians 6:18).

b) Directing Warfare Against the Enemy:
In tongues, believers can target specific issues in the spirit realm, breaking strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4).

c) Overcoming Spiritual Weakness:
Tongues empower believers to rise above spiritual weaknesses, granting victory over temptations (1 Corinthians 14:4).

d) Unseen Power and Protection:
Through tongues, believers are equipped with divine power and protection against the enemy (Psalm 91:11).

Biblical Example: Early believers prayed in tongues, experiencing victory and growth despite persecution (Acts 4:31, Acts 16:25-26).

5. BUILDING FAITH AND SPIRITUAL COURAGE
Speaking in tongues nurtures faith, bringing courage and boldness to the believer's life.

a) Increasing Faith and Trust in God:
Praying in tongues builds up faith, reminding believers of God’s power within them (Jude 1:20).

b) Developing Confidence in God’s Promises:
As believers pray in tongues, their confidence in God’s promises grows (Hebrews 10:23).

c) Experiencing God’s Presence in New Ways:
The consistent practice of tongues leads to a deeper awareness of God’s presence (Psalm 16:11).

d) Empowering Boldness to Witness:
Speaking in tongues fills believers with boldness to share their faith and witness (Acts 1:8).

Biblical Example: On the day of Pentecost, the disciples received boldness through the Holy Spirit to preach the gospel (Acts 2:14).

CONCLUSION:
Speaking in tongues is a precious gift that brings numerous benefits to the believer. It opens the door to direct communication with God, builds spiritual strength, aligns prayers with God’s will, equips for spiritual warfare, and strengthens faith. These benefits help believers to walk in the fullness of the Spirit, live victoriously, and serve effectively. May we seek to embrace and utilize this gift, allowing it to deepen our relationship with God and empower us in our Christian journey.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to receive and embrace the gift of speaking in tongues.

2. Holy Spirit, grant me boldness and confidence as I speak in tongues.

3. Father, align my prayers with Your perfect will through the Holy Spirit.

4. Holy Spirit, strengthen my spirit as I pray in tongues daily.

5. Lord, refresh and renew my spirit through this precious gift.

6. Father, empower me to overcome spiritual challenges through tongues.

7. Lord, build my faith and courage as I grow in the Spirit.

8. Holy Spirit, guide my prayers in spiritual warfare.

9. Father, grant me sensitivity to Your leading as I speak in tongues.

10. Lord, deepen my intimacy with You through the gift of tongues.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that you will receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit’s gift of tongues.

2. May your spirit be strengthened daily as you speak in tongues.

3. I decree that your faith will grow as you engage in Spirit-led prayers.

4. You will experience a deeper intimacy with God through this supernatural language.

5. I declare that your prayers will align with God’s perfect will.

6. May you walk boldly, empowered by the Spirit in all circumstances.

7. I declare that you will have victory in every spiritual battle.

8. Your life will be a testimony of God’s power through the Holy Spirit.

9. I decree that you will have spiritual sensitivity and discernment.

10. May you be filled with joy, peace, and boldness through the gift of tongues.