NOTE: An updated version of this post is available on my new website. Click on this link to read it: http://bornofspirit.net/why-speak-in-tongues-2/
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Here are some reasons the bible gives for speaking in tongues
1 Corinthians 14:14 - For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful.
Additionally, this is a spiritual exercise that gives your spirit greater influence in your life. It gives you a chance to practice spiritual actions in a tangible way. This alone is good enough reason to speak in tongues as much as possible, and I believe it is one of the reasons that Paul the apostle said "I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you."
1 Corinthians 14:2 - For one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God; for no one understands, but in his spirit he speaks mysteries.
Speaking in tongues give you a way to speak to God that goes beyond your mental abilities. You can pray with your spirit, without being limited by your intellect..
1 Corinthians 14:2 - For one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God; for no one understands, but in his spirit he speaks mysteries.
The word that is translated "mysteries" is a Greek word that means the hidden wisdom of God that has not been revealed yet. Praying in tongues allows you to speak God's wisdom over the situation you are praying about, without being limited by your ability to comprehend it.
1 Corinthians 14:4 - One who speaks in a tongue edifies himself; but one who prophesies edifies the church.
When you speak in tongues, you are "edifying" yourself. It is a way to strengthen or build yourself up that works supernaturally. When you need strength, you can receive it by speaking in tongues.
Jude 20-21(NET) But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith, by praying in the Holy Spirit, maintain yourselves in the love of God, while anticipating the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that brings eternal life.
Speaking in tongues is a faith building exercise, since it can only be done by faith. Every time you do it, you are operating in faith, and your faith is strengthened as a result. It is also a way to "maintain yourself in the love of God." This is also translated "keep yourselves in the love of God."
Ephesians 6:18 - ...praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints
This passage comes at the end of a section in Ephesians where Paul is giving instructions on how to "be strong in the Lord" and to "stand against the wiles of the devil." The instructions include putting on the whole armor of God. Praying in tongues is a powerful tool for us to use in spiritual warfare.
Romans 8:26-27 - Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Praying in the spirit provides a new way for the Holy Spirit to aid you when you don't know how or what to pray. He works in you helping you pray the things that are needed, even if you don't know what those things are. This passage is also another example of a reason to pray in tongues when you are weak.
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