to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:10

Perhaps the one gift that divides the charismatics and non-charismatics is that of tongues. There are as many false notions about tongues as there are people who don’t believe in them. And yet, if you were to line up the doctrines of both of these groups, they would believe more than 95% of what the other “side” believes. Think about that for a second. Our doctrines are nearly identical and yet we don’t work together for the Kingdom. That should not be.

Recall earlier in this series (verse 7) was Paul’s comment about “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” This is important as it relates to tongues and interpretation because often tongues are viewed as a private prayer language, in order to build oneself up. As we’ve seen throughout these verses, the gifts are given to build up the body of Christ as a whole.

I will not be able to solve the tongues issue in this little devotional, nor is that my intent. As with the other gifts, if this is not your gift, then it probably shouldn’t worry you. If it is your gift, then do you get distressed at those who don’t have the gift? It’s fairly clear that gifts are given to different people for different reasons.

Rejoice in the gifts He’s given you. Rejoice also in the gifts He gives others.