1 Corinthians 14:1-15 - Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. 2For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. 3On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. 4The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. 5Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up. 6Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? 7If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? 8And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? 9So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air. 10There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning, 11but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me. 12So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church. 13Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. 14For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful. 15What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.

Desiring Spiritual Gifts

In the passage from 1 Corinthians 14, Paul encourages the Corinthians to earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. He explains that while speaking in tongues may be beneficial for the speaker, it is only through prophecy that the church is built up. Paul emphasizes the importance of using spiritual gifts in a way that edifies and encourages others. He also highlights the need for orderliness in worship services, with each person taking turns to share their gifts and only a few individuals speaking in tongues or prophesying at a time. Paul's instructions remind us that the purpose of spiritual gifts is to build up the church and bring glory to God. As believers, we should eagerly seek the manifestation of the Spirit in our lives and strive to use our gifts in a way that brings unity and edification to the body of Christ.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit and the spiritual gifts that you have bestowed upon us. Help us to earnestly desire these gifts, especially the gift of prophecy, so that we may edify and encourage one another. Teach us to use our gifts in an orderly and respectful manner, always seeking to build up the church and bring glory to your name. May we be filled with your Spirit and guided by your wisdom as we seek to serve you and others. In Jesus' name, amen.