Praying in tongues, often referred to as praying in the Spirit, is a powerful spiritual practice that many believers cherish. It transcends the limitations of human language, allowing direct communication with God. Rooted in Scripture and empowered by the Holy Spirit, this form of prayer has profound benefits that transform our spiritual lives. This article delves into seven key benefits of praying in tongues, illuminating its importance for every believer.
1. Establishing the Spirit’s Dominance Over the Soul and Body
Praying in tongues is a spiritual technology that establishes the correct order within man, where the spirit takes precedence over the soul and body. In the natural state, the soul—comprising the mind, will, and emotions—often dictates our actions and decisions. This can lead to a life driven by emotions, intellect, or even fleshly desires. However, when we pray in tongues, the spirit within us is empowered by the Holy Spirit to take its rightful place of leadership. This practice locks out the soul, ensuring that our communion with God is not hindered by our thoughts, feelings, or human reasoning.
In essence, praying in tongues allows the spirit to rise above the soul, bringing our entire being into alignment with God’s will. It creates a spiritual atmosphere where the soul and body are subject to the spirit’s influence, leading to a life that is more in tune with the purposes of God.
2. Enhanced Spiritual Edification and Strengthening
One of the most significant benefits of praying in tongues is the personal edification it provides. The apostle Paul highlights this in 1 Corinthians 14:4, stating that “He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself.” To edify means to build up, strengthen, or improve. When we pray in tongues, we are building up our inner man, fortifying our spirit against the challenges and trials of life.
This spiritual strengthening is crucial for maintaining a vibrant faith and a consistent walk with God. It empowers us to stand firm in the face of adversity, resist temptation, and remain steadfast in our commitment to God’s will. As we engage in this form of prayer, we become spiritually fortified, ready to tackle whatever life throws our way.
3. Unlocking Divine Mysteries and Hidden Wisdom
Praying in tongues goes beyond our natural understanding. When we engage in this spiritual practice, we tap into divine mysteries and the hidden wisdom of God. The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 14:2 that “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.”
These mysteries are divine revelations that are not accessible through human reasoning or intellectual effort. Praying in tongues allows us to access God’s hidden wisdom, which He reveals to our spirits. This can lead to profound insights, revelations, and a deeper understanding of His will and purpose for our lives. It’s a way of accessing the deeper things of God, which are often beyond the reach of our natural minds.
4. Aligning Our Prayers with God’s Perfect Will
When we pray in understanding—using our natural language—there is always a possibility that we may pray amiss. Our prayers can be influenced by our limited knowledge, personal desires, or emotions. However, when we pray in tongues, we bypass these limitations. The Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf, ensuring that our prayers are perfectly aligned with God’s will.
Romans 8:26-27 explains this beautifully: “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.”
Praying in tongues ensures that our prayers are in harmony with God’s purposes, even when we are unaware of what we should pray for. This leads to more effective prayer, with results that align with God’s perfect plan for our lives.
5. Increasing Spiritual Sensitivity and Discernment
As we pray in tongues, our spirits become more attuned to the voice and leading of the Holy Spirit. This increased sensitivity enhances our ability to discern spiritual truths, detect the enemy’s schemes, and navigate the complexities of life with divine wisdom.
Praying in tongues sharpens our spiritual senses, making us more aware of God’s presence and guidance in our daily lives. It heightens our ability to perceive and understand the spiritual realities that govern the natural world. As a result, we can make decisions that are in line with God’s will, avoid spiritual pitfalls, and walk in greater victory.
6. Deepening Intimacy with God
Praying in tongues fosters a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. This form of prayer allows us to connect with Him on a spirit-to-Spirit level, bypassing the limitations of our human language and understanding. It’s an expression of our innermost desires, emotions, and worship, communicated directly to God through the Holy Spirit.
This deep communion strengthens our bond with God, drawing us closer to Him. As we engage in praying in tongues, we experience His presence in a more profound way, leading to a richer and more fulfilling spiritual life. It’s a way of aligning our hearts with His, resulting in a deeper connection and a more vibrant relationship with our Creator.
7. Empowering Effective Spiritual Warfare
Praying in tongues is a powerful tool in spiritual warfare. It allows us to engage in battles in the spiritual realm with the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 6:18 instructs us to “pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” This includes praying in tongues as a means of waging war against the forces of darkness.
When we pray in tongues, the Holy Spirit empowers our prayers, making them more effective against the enemy’s schemes. We can intercede for ourselves, our loved ones, and situations around us with precision and power, knowing that our prayers are directed and energized by God Himself. This leads to greater breakthroughs, deliverance, and victories in our spiritual battles.
Conclusion: The Call to Pray More in Tongues
The benefits of praying in tongues are manifold, encompassing spiritual edification, alignment with God’s will, increased sensitivity, and more. This practice is not just a spiritual exercise; it is a vital aspect of our walk with God that unlocks His power and presence in our lives. The Holy Spirit has granted us this precious gift, and it is up to us to utilize it fully.
We are encouraged to pray more, or even always, in tongues. Whether it’s for personal edification, aligning with God’s will, or engaging in spiritual warfare, praying in tongues is a powerful tool that every believer should embrace. Let us, therefore, commit to praying in the Spirit continually, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us into deeper communion with God and a more victorious Christian life.
