1 Corinthians 14:12–14: Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel. Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.
Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret: Here, Paul points to a way of giving the interpretation of the tongue, without necessarily speaking forth the tongue itself. Here, he suggests the tongues speaker himself pray that he may interpret. Then, the uncertain sound mentioned in 1 Corinthians 14:8 need never be public, yet the whole church is edified by the interpretation of the tongue. 1
Application
- Read Ephesians 4:30. How can the Holy Spirit be grieved?
- Compare Ephesians 4:31 to Ephesians 4:32. What blesses the Holy Spirit?
Thought to Share
When we communicate to God, it is to bless Him and build others. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, thank you for welcoming our words and understanding our hearts.
1. David Guzik online commentary.