Speaking in Tongues

In my about me page I let you know that I "speak in tongues."  To some this is a very scary phrase and it used to be for me to.  I would like to clarify this statement and hopefully help to break an old stereotype.  I understand that there may be churches that everyone is speaking in tongues all at once and there is no interpreter, very chaotic and uncomfortable for someone new.  Since I have not attended one I have no idea if this does still exist.   I believe God does not want chaos or an uncomfortable environment in His House.  The New Testament letters from Paul make it pretty clear that this is not acceptable.  (ref 1 Corinthians 14)    I am no theological student or minister but would like to share my own beliefs on the matter in the best way I know how.  I will reference scripture and give other sources for you to research it on your own should you choose to understand this gift more.

When our friends invited us to the church we now attend, they did let us know that they do believe in "speaking in tongues," aka "praying in the Holy Spirit."  They did not want us to get there and be surprised.  You can only imagine the scenes I had running through my head.  All based off of rumors and stereo-types, not from any experience I had had.  Well, we got there and there was no chaos, not dozens of people speaking loudly in other languages or babbling.  When the pastor prayed, you could hear some praying softly along with him but quietly and for themselves, not for others to hear.

Fast forward to now.  I have grown to understand this beautiful prayer language and value it more than gold.  Yes, I do pray in the Holy Spirit.  He takes my prayers and translates them in God's own language.  He knows more than I could ever know about what I should pray for and how I should pray for it.  Like I said, I am no bible teacher.  I am going to list several scriptures below and a couple of reference sites for further understanding on this.

I do not believe that speaking in tongues is in any way tied into my salvation.  I am saved through Christ alone, not by anything else.  Not every Christian "speaks in tongues."  It is something that is personal between you and God.  I know that I will see all of my fellow believers in Heaven, not just the ones that pray in the Spirit.  Praying in the Holy Spirit helps me here and now.  He is our counselor and comforter, our helper and intercessor.  (see John 14:16, John 14:26, John 15:26 and John 16:7)  

There is so much more that I could write here but my main purpose in this post is to dispel the stereo-type.  Also, I want to ensure that my readers do understand who I am and what my beliefs are.    I do believe that it is a wonderful gift and have experienced the benefits over and over in my daily life.  My love for others motivates me to share this with them so that they can enjoy such an amazing closeness with God and power in their lives.

I would love to hear from you.  Do you believe in speaking in tongues?  Do you have more questions about it?  I do ask that you be respectful if you disagree.  I am open to dialogue and debate but not disrespect or derision.  I will not speak down to you and hope you would treat me the same.

For your reference, here are a few links that I did not mention above.  This is not an exhaustive list, but a good start for those that are interested.


Acts 2
1 Corinthians 12:7-11 & 12:28-31
Speaking in Tongues by Kenneth E. Hagin
CARM - What is speaking in tongues?