PRAYING IN TONGUES
30th Sep 2015
In 1969 I received the Infilling/Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I earnestly sought after spiritual gifts and received the gift of speaking in tongues which I use constantly. I was so conscious of the the indwelling presence of Jesus and very aware that apart from His Spirit I had nothing to offer anyone.
A few days ago I recalled a situation in Africa when I was visiting a past revival area with an African Pastor. Missionaries were still running a hospital, but there was little evidence of the past revival. I was also grieved that our friend was being ignored and dishonoured and as we left the compound I apologised to him and asked if he had felt what I did? He laughed and said he was fine, more worried that I would start praying in tongues, as he knew that would have been unacceptable!
Last week I read an article in Charisma Magazine entitled"Why Do So Many Pentecostals and Charismatics Not Speak in Tongues Anymore?” and I asked myself if I still used the gift the way I had in the past. When faced with seemingly impossible situations, do you tell God what He should do or let the Holy Spirit intercede through you?
Do you use supernatural resources or have you found them too controversial or considered them mindless? Paul says in Ephesians 6:18, “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul says, “He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself.” literally builds himself up, is strengthened, and also, “I would like everyone of you to speak in tongues.”
I see a general neglect of spiritual gifts in the Church today and I personally have repented of praying with my mind more than the Spirit. I asked myself, do I still use and value these gifts as I did when I first received? I then spent time before the Lord praying in tongues and while I did I had a vision of a Victorian fireplace with dying embers in the grate. As I prayed a few small flames appeared and as I continued the fire was reignited and refuelled.
Paul encourages Timothy to “fan into flames the gift given to him when hands were laid on him.” 2 Timothy 1:6
I would encourage to watch this short Youtube Video - The Best Teaching On Speaking In Tongues I Have Ever Heard!!!
by Joyce Sibthorpe
