The Gift of Interpretation of Tongues

 

 The Gift of Interpretation of Tongues

“To another the interpretation of tongues…” – 1 Corinthians 12:10 (NKJV)

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Devotional Message:

The gift of interpretation of tongues is a spiritual bridge between the mysteries spoken in unknown languages and the understanding of the gathered body of Christ. While the gift of tongues allows believers to communicate with God in divine languages, interpretation brings clarity to the human ear, ensuring edification and order in the church (1 Corinthians 14:5).

Interpretation is not translation. It conveys the meaning, intention, and spirit of the utterance—often summarizing rather than word-for-word translating. This gift ensures that when tongues are spoken aloud in the congregation, the message does not remain veiled but serves to uplift and instruct.

In this gift, the interpreter becomes an instrument of divine revelation—allowing what was heavenly and hidden to be known and appreciated by all. It also teaches humility and unity: the tongue-speaker relies on the interpreter, and the interpreter depends on the Spirit.

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Key Lessons:

1. God Desires Edification: The purpose of interpretation is to build up the church, not to confuse it.
2. Interpretation Requires Discernment: It comes by the Spirit, not natural understanding.
3. Unity in the Body: This gift teaches interdependence among believers.
4. Order in Worship: Interpretation ensures that spiritual gifts flow decently and in order (1 Corinthians 14:27-28).
5. Faith and Obedience: The interpreter must step out in faith to speak what is heard in the spirit.

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Reflection Questions:

1. Have I ever experienced or witnessed the gift of tongues and interpretation in a corporate setting?
2. Do I value understanding in worship or only the display of spiritual gifts?
3. Am I open to being used by God to bring clarity to others through interpretation?
4. How can I cultivate a more sensitive spirit to recognize God's voice in this way?

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Actions to Take:

• Pray for the interpretation when tongues are spoken (1 Corinthians 14:13).
• Avoid chasing manifestations; pursue the edification of the church.
• Encourage balance in corporate worship—both Spirit and understanding.
• Create space in prayer gatherings for both tongues and interpretation.

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Concluding Prayer:

Father, thank You for the gift of interpretation of tongues. Grant me spiritual sensitivity to discern and declare what You are saying. May I be an instrument of understanding and peace in Your house. Teach me to desire what edifies and glorifies You above all. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Further Scriptures for Meditation:

• 1 Corinthians 14:5 – “He who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets…”
• 1 Corinthians 14:13 – “Let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret.”
• 1 Corinthians 14:27-28 – Guidelines for orderly operation of tongues and interpretation.
• Acts 2:6-12 – God’s use of language for divine communication.
• John 16:13 – The Spirit guiding into all truth.

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Powerful Prayer Points & Declarations:

1. Prayer: Lord, open my ears to hear the Spirit clearly when interpretation is needed.
   Declaration: I have the mind of Christ to understand divine mysteries.

2. Prayer: Holy Spirit, grant me grace to interpret for the edification of others.
   Declaration: I am a vessel of understanding and revelation.

3. Prayer: Remove every fear and doubt that keeps me from speaking out in faith.
   Declaration: I am bold in the Spirit to declare the words of the Lord.

4. Prayer: Let my gift align with Your order and will in worship.
   Declaration: I walk in divine timing and spiritual order.

5. Prayer: Teach me to listen deeply when tongues are spoken.
   Declaration: My spirit is alert and in tune with heaven.

6. Prayer: May the gifts in me be stirred up for Your glory.
   Declaration: I will not bury the gift God has given me.

7. Prayer: Father, let there be clarity and peace in every interpretation.
   Declaration: God is not the author of confusion but of peace.

8. Prayer: Let Your voice come through me clearly and purely.
   Declaration: I speak what I hear in the Spirit with accuracy and grace.

9. Prayer: Guard me from pride or self-promotion in the use of gifts.
   Declaration: I operate in love and humility, serving the body of Christ.

10. Prayer: May the gift of interpretation lead many to greater worship and understanding.
    Declaration: Through me, the church shall grow in wisdom and unity.

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