1 Corinthians 14:1-12 Whatever Your Gift, Let It Build-Up The Church

Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified Now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the pipe or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air. Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and the speaker is a foreigner to me So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church. After love, the Holy Spirit's greatest gift is prophecy. In the New Testament, this is the ability to preach. It is useful because it edifies, or builds up the church as a whole. Where special gifts like speaking in tongues and healing certainly are distinct, they profit not the body of Christ. Jesus' greatest gift is his word and the word that is built up the body of Christ creates faith in Jesus. Words can destroy but they also can heal. So let our words be taken from his word so as to lead people to their Savior Jesus Christ. Daily Prayer: Lord transform my words so that they are taken from your words. Give me this gift so that I can glorify you in what I say. In your holy name I pray Amen.