There are some gifts that are wonderful but benefit only oneself, but in the community we ought to use our gifts to build each other up. Paul uses the example of speaking in tongues. What good is speaking in tongues if no one understands what you are saying? But, if one uses their words to encourage or speak wisdom, then it benefits those who hear it.
Even if we are not good at it, if we nurture our abilities in ways that build others up, they become valuable contributions. Nurture your gifts, your creativity, your interests, and your unique contributions are like fertile soil where others can be enriched and grow.
Jun 24, 2026
WHAT CAN I DO?
Passage: 1 Corinthians 14:1-12
Key verse: 12
NIV
chapter 14
1. Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.
2. 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.
3. But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort.
4. Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.
5. I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.
6. Now, brothers and sisters, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction?
7. Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the pipe or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes?
8. Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?
9. So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air.
10. Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning.
11. If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and the speaker is a foreigner to me.
12. So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Prayer: Lord, help me to do what I can do to serve others and grow in this way continually.
One Word: Excel in serving others