Again, to clarify: by referring to these expressions as “private,” I do not mean that they are only to be used when a person is alone. Rather, private expressions in heavenly languages are used with sensitivity to the presence of those whom the Bible calls “uninformed” or “unbelievers.” These expressions can occur when a person is alone or in the company of other believers who understand this manifestation of the Spirit. It is similar to the way I would have certain private conversations with my family that I wouldn’t have in front of a group of recent acquaintances, for these new acquaintances would not understand what I was talking about (see 1 Corinthians 14:22-25 for more).

Notice that Paul refers to the use of tongues in 1 Corinthians 14:2 as a “private language.” Sadly, many factions of the Church have misunderstood or completely dismissed the amazing gift of private tongues because they do not realize that intimacy requires an appropriate time and place.

There is a time and a place for a couple to enjoy intimacy. Is that time before they are married? No. Is that place in a public environment? Certainly not. What is beautiful and God-ordained in one setting can be tawdry and inappropriate in another. God intended for sexual intimacy to occur in private, only after the marriage vows have been exchanged. Likewise, certain types of tongues should only be expressed in private because their intended purpose is that of intimacy. The proper expression of spiritual intimacy, like that of physical intimacy, falls within a specific time and place. Should Christians abstain from the gift of sex because mankind has perverted God’s original design and purpose for it? Of course not! In a similar fashion, we cannot discount or despise the gift of tongues.

I know that many in the Church have seen aspects of the gift of tongues misused or even abused. However, we must not refuse to educate the Body of Christ about this gift just because some have misunderstood or misappropriated it. That is why in this chapter, I want to explore the intimate nature of our heavenly language and help you develop a better understanding of its purpose and significance in our lives.

Remember, the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. As you yield to the wisdom of God’s Word, the Spirit will reveal all truth to you. Take a moment to pause and invite Him into this time of learning. Ask Him to remove from your mind any preconceived ideas or beliefs that are contrary to His Word. You can never experience the fullness of God if you allow your finite understanding to define and confine His infinite greatness.

The President and the King