The second point to understand about the gift of tongues is that for us to be spiritually edified, it is not necessary to understand what we are saying when we pray in tongues.
Those who pray in the Spirit regularly often do not comprehend the words they utter, yet they speak “mysteries in the Spirit” (1 Corinthians 14:2). As we continue to speak these mysteries, our spirit is strengthened and built up—even when our mind does not understand.
Just like medicine benefits us even when we don’t understand its composition, speaking in tongues benefits our spiritual life in unseen ways. The result becomes visible over time through inner peace, divine strength, and spiritual growth.
A Real-Life Testimony
Jose from Bangalore, who works for an MNC, once had to give an important presentation in North India. He felt nervous, but instead of worrying, he began praying in tongues during his preparation. Although he didn’t understand what he was saying, he trusted the Holy Spirit’s guidance. His presentation turned out to be a great success, and he came out victorious.
A Revelation from the Lord
Many believers initially wonder, “Is speaking in tongues useful?” The Lord once revealed a simple yet powerful example:
“When you keep typing on a typewriter, you hear the same sound repeatedly, but on paper, meaningful words appear.”
Likewise, when we pray in tongues, the sounds may seem repetitive, but God understands and transforms them into divine messages.
Tailor-Made Prayers
While traveling with a friend from Chalakudy to Palakkad, the Lord gave another revelation: “The words you speak in tongues are exactly what you need.”
Each believer’s prayer language is tailor-made—personally designed by the Holy Spirit for their life, needs, and purpose.
As the Scripture says, “He who speaks in tongues edifies himself.” Even when we don’t feel it immediately, God is working within us. Over time, visible changes appear both in us and around us.
The Gift of Interpretation
The gift of interpretation of tongues is not a word-by-word translation but an understanding of the essence of what is spoken. Sometimes the message spoken in tongues may be long, while the interpretation is short—or vice versa.
The Bible offers an example in Daniel 5:25–28, where the words “MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN” were written on the wall. Daniel interpreted them as a full message from God about the fall of Babylon’s kingdom. Four words held a divine message spanning three sentences!
How Interpretation Works
The gift of interpretation can manifest in two main ways:
- Inner Revelation: As you pray in tongues, thoughts, images, or visions may form clearly in your mind—these are the Spirit’s interpretation.
- Spoken Utterance: After praying in tongues, words in your known language may flow naturally, expressing the meaning of what was prayed. Sometimes, the interpretation may also come through another person.
Conclusion
Praying in tongues is a divine gift that transcends human understanding. Though we may not grasp its meaning, it connects our spirit directly to God, edifies us, and reveals His mysteries. Through faith and persistence, we can experience the transforming power of this heavenly language.
