Praying in Tongues Benefits

Praying in tongues privately opens a direct channel of communication with God that transcends our human understanding. This supernatural gift allows believers to pray beyond their natural limitations, accessing a pure, heavenly language that builds faith and deepens their relationship with God.

In this first part of our two-part series, we'll explore the fundamental principles and biblical foundations of this extraordinary gift. Whether you're new to this spiritual practice, also called praying in the Spirit, or seeking to enhance your prayer life, this comprehensive guide will help you understand and effectively utilize this divine gift for personal edification and spiritual growth.

Understanding Praying in Tongues: Your Divine Connection

Part 1 of 2 by Don Bell | ⏱️ 21 minute read

Praying in tongues differs greatly from praying in your known language. Paul says, "For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries" (1 Corinthians 14:2).

Whenever we pray audibly in a known language, the prayer is rooted in our understanding, and both we and those who hear us understand the prayer's content. However, when we pray audibly in tongues, our spirit prays in unknown languages, bypassing our mind with its natural limitations, and neither we nor those who hear us can understand our prayer.

As Paul says, "If I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful" (1 Corinthians 12:14). This ensures our prayer communication with God is pure and understood only by Him. It's private and free from doubts, human manipulation, cultural biases, and demonic interference. Consider tongues as an Earth-to-Heaven direct-line to God.

Experiencing the Full Power of Praying in Tongues

Are you longing for a deeper, more intimate connection with God? Do you desire to see your prayers answered and experience spiritual breakthroughs in your life? Make use of the powerful practice of praying in the Holy Spirit.

Prayer inspired by the Holy Spirit can be beneficial for edification, intercession, overcoming, revelation, engaging in spiritual warfare, and offering heartfelt praises to God. It helps overcome weaknesses, brings emotional healing, strengthens your faith, and fosters greater intimacy with God.

Paul says, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God" (Philippians 4:6).

We can pray in tongues at will for needs and prayer requests, not just for ourselves but also for others. And, we can always expect results because we are praying in perfect alignment with God's will.

Believing is the key to receiving what you ask for in prayer, and praying in tongues helps build up your faith to believe that God can answer your prayer and overcome any situation.

Balancing Natural Understanding With Praying in Tongues

Paul says, "For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding" (1 Corinthians 14:14–15).

When praying in private, engage both your mind AND your spirit by using your known language as well as tongues. A balance between the two prayer expressions is vital for effective prayer and a wholesome prayer life.

For example, begin by praying for a need in your known language. As you find yourself running short of words, switch to praying in tongues until you sense a release. The more you pray in the natural AND in the Spirit, the more your prayer life will grow and improve.

Similarly, begin singing a hymn or familiar chorus and then switch to singing in an unknown tongue, using the familiar tune. Eventually, ask the Holy Spirit to give you both the tongue and the tune.

Praying and singing in tongues combined with praying and singing in the natural will add depth to your spiritual life by boosting your faith along with your inner peace. Adopt this form of prayer for a more intimate connection with Father God.

Building upon these practical steps, we'll now explore the vital role of fervency in prayer.

The Power of Fervent Prayer

James says, "The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. … The effective, FERVENT prayer of a righteous man avails much" (James 5:15–16, emphasis added).

The Greek word ἐνεργέω (energeō), often translated as "fervent," implies that our prayers should be charged with "energy" when delivered, balancing passion and faith. According to James, it's a motivated prayer of faith that's effective and always produces a result.

We must put effort into our prayers to receive the desired results. Fervent prayers require fervency! Pray from your innermost being — your spirit, not just from your intellect.

Channeling Emotions in Prayer

While it is true that our prayers should be based on faith, not feelings, it doesn't mean we should not feel anything when praying. Lack of emotion can leave room for doubt, leading to uninspired, unanswered prayers.

After all, God created us with emotions, and when properly controlled, they serve us well. However, we must never allow our emotions to rule over us. Self-control is one of the nine fruits of the Spirit.

Pray trusting in God, not in your emotions. Never allow your feelings to dictate your prayer life. When praying in tongues, pray clearly in a normal voice with fervency and conviction, just as you would in a known language.

Making Praying in Tongues Your Daily Practice

The Holy Spirit desires us to be led by Him, for us to experience greater freedom in our prayer life. The ability to pray in tongues is an important component of this.

Meeting the Challenge of Continuous Prayer

Paul urges, "Stand therefore, … praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" (Ephesians 6:14,18). Using the Greek word δέησις (deēsis), Paul urges us to pray always with supplication (specific requests) in the Spirit.

But, how can we be "praying always" for needs? Not only is it difficult to keep our minds focused, we eventually run out of words and end up repeating ourselves.

Thankfully, God in His mercy understands our human limitations, so He gave us the gift of tongues to help us compensate. The gift of speaking in tongues allows believers to pray without repetitive phrasing despite our human frailties.

Practical Ways to Integrate Tongues Daily

The Holy Spirit desires to lead us into greater freedom in our prayer life. Here's how to integrate tongues into your daily routine:

• During Regular Activities:
  - While preparing meals
  - During your commute
  - During exercise
  - While doing household chores
  - Before falling asleep
• Create Prayer Triggers:
  - When you wake up
  - At rest breaks
  - At specific times you set
  - When facing challenges
  - Before you sleep
• Maintain Spiritual Awareness:
  - Respond to Holy Spirit's promptings
  - Stay sensitive to prayer opportunities
  - Remember you can pray silently when needed
  - Keep your spirit attuned to God throughout the day
  

This integration allows for "praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:14,18) without the limitations of our natural mind or the need for specific settings.

Building Your Prayer Power Systematically

To increase your prayer power, consider these essential practices:

1. Set aside dedicated time daily for praying in tongues:
   - Start with 15 to 30 minutes
   - Gradually increase duration as led by the Spirit
   - Choose a consistent time that works best for you
   
2. Build your faith systematically:
   - Begin each session with thanksgiving
   - Focus on God's faithfulness and promises
   - Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your prayer
   
3. Maintain consistency in your practice:
   - Create a prayer journal to track your journey
   - Note any spiritual insights received
   - Document answers to prayers
   

This systematic approach will build up your most holy faith (Jude 1:20), resulting in more effective prayers when others request your intercession.

While establishing a consistent prayer routine is essential, equally important is developing the art of listening to God.

Maintaining Your Prayer Momentum

While the initial excitement of speaking in tongues may settle over time, leaving you feeling somewhat dry and empty, you can maintain a vibrant prayer life by regularly engaging in tongues as a way to build up your faith.

This consistent practice will empower your prayers and bring increased confidence when ministering to others. Never forget that it's God who’s doing the work; it's not you! Scripture confirms, "‘[It's] not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts" (Zachariah 4:6).

You are God’s chosen vessel — a conduit for the flow of His anointing. Simply pray and allow His anointing to flow out to touch lives!

Balancing Speaking and Listening in Prayer

Have you ever noticed that people who have the tendency to talk a lot rarely listen to what you have to say? As you develop your prayer life, remember that God already knows your needs before you even speak (Matthew 6:8).

Your Father in Heaven desires a genuine relationship more than lengthy petitions. Take time simply to rest in His presence, allowing space for both speaking and listening.

King Solomon wisely urged, "Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; therefore let your words be few" (Ecclesiastes 5:2).

So, instead of immediately voicing your needs in prayer, take a few moments to embrace silence. Silence before God is a form of prayer! God asks of us, "'Be still, and know that I am God …'" (Psalms 46:10).

The Psalmist writes, "Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD!" (Psalms 27:14).

As we learn to be still before God, we must also develop our ability to recognize His voice.

Recognizing God's Voice Through the Spirit

Always be open to hearing God's voice and guidance, whether it comes as a thought, an image in your mind's eye, a Scripture passage, or a gentle prompting. Allow God the freedom to speak with you in whatever way He chooses.

Avoid preconceived notions of what YOU think God is wanting to communicate, as this can hinder your ability to clearly hear from Him. Most importantly, HEAR Him!

Jesus says, "'My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me'" (John 10:27).

Types of Prayer When Praying in Tongues

The Apostle Paul advocates, "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints …" (Ephesians 6:18).

Keep in mind that you might find yourself speaking in a different tongue depending on the spiritual focus of the prayer. Remember, it's the gift of tongues, plural.

Understanding the exact meaning of the words you've spoken is not possible while praying in an unknown tongue, as you're speaking mysteries to God. However, you can often sense the focus of the Holy Spirit's prayer, and it will sometimes affect the tone and intensity of your spoken delivery.

You will begin to sense whether you are edifying yourself or interceding for a particular person or circumstance. You will also know when you're engaged in intercession, breakthrough, spiritual warfare, or worshiping God.

For example, if your prayer is focused on spiritual breakthrough, you'll sense a growing confidence, and a strengthening in your faith. If your prayer is one of praise and thanksgiving, it's not uncommon to find yourself becoming elated and eventually expressing praise in your natural language.

The interpretation of your prayer in a heavenly tongue is unnecessary; after all, it's a prayer directed to God. However, on rare occasions the Holy Spirit might reveal the gist (condensed interpretation) of your prayer to encourage you. And, all the while you're praying, you'll be building yourself up in the most holy faith. Praying in the Holy Spirit can benefit us in so many ways. God is so good!

Let's consider examples of the types of spiritual prayer you can engage in when praying in tongues.

Prayer for Needs and Intentions

Jesus recommends, "'When you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him'" (Matthew 6:7–8).

Avoid vain repetition when praying. God invites us to pray with confidence and faith, knowing that He hears us the first time we pray. It's not the length of your prayer that brings results; rather, it's earnest, sincere prayer coupled with unwavering faith in God Himself that truly makes a difference.

Praying in the Holy Spirit builds up your faith to know God's will. Then, as Jesus says, "'Whatever things you ask in prayer, BELIEVING, you will receive'" (Matthew 21:22, emphasis added).

Prayer for Intercession

Paul explains, "The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered" (Romans 8:26).

An intercessory tongue carries profound spiritual weight and depth. It can deeply resonate within your inner being. Its words can be accompanied by sighs, groans, and even tears, depending on the intensity of prayer.

Your spirit might feel burdened and even grieve at times. It's not uncommon for burdens to arise while praying in the Holy Spirit, and specific individuals and circumstances to come to the forefront of your mind.

Although we may not always know with certainty what we are praying for in an unknown language, we can have complete confidence that our prayers align with God's will, and we can persevere until we can sense the burden has lifted.

Never give up in the midst of interceding. Continue to pray in the Holy Spirit, and when you sense the breakthrough has come, praise God for the prayer victory. You might never know what amazing things God accomplished through the prayer.

Divine Encounters: Examples of Intercessory Prayer

The power of intercessory prayer in the Spirit extends far beyond our natural understanding or abilities. When we yield ourselves to pray in tongues for others, we become vessels through which God's perfect will can flow.

Whether we see immediate results or continue faithfully without visible evidence, we can trust that every Spirit-led prayer accomplishes God's purpose.

Remember, our role is simply to remain available and faithful in prayer, allowing the Holy Spirit to pray through us according to the Father's perfect wisdom and timing. The results, often more amazing and far-reaching than we could imagine, rest securely in His capable hands.

Prayer for Overcoming

The tongues we speak are transformative spiritual languages that bypass our natural understanding, connecting directly with God's healing power. This divine communication strengthens your inner man, rebuilding your spiritual resilience, and washing away the residue of discouragement.

Overcoming Discouragement

Praying in the Holy Spirit offers an effective way to overcome discouragement and depression. When you begin praying in tongues, you're instantly transported into a realm of divine encouragement and strength. We're not just earthbound beings, but seated together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:4–6), with direct access to supernatural peace.

The Holy Spirit knows exactly what your soul needs, and praying in tongues allows Him to intercede with perfect wisdom. When spiritual attacks attempt to overwhelm you, this heavenly prayer language becomes a powerful weapon, dismantling the enemy's strategies and restoring your joy.

Since depression can have non-spiritual causes as well, remain open to the Holy Spirit's guidance as you pray. Words of knowledge and wisdom invite divine insight that can reveal underlying causes and dynamics and help chart a course to complete healing.

The gifts of the Spirit work together harmoniously, helping us assess and navigate life's challenges with supernatural grace and power.

Overcoming Difficult Circumstances

Pray in the Spirit when facing difficult circumstances. Either your innermost being and emotions will be strengthened to accept the circumstance with peace, or you will be given God's wisdom on how to best handle the situation.

Sometimes, believers will complain during God's cleansing process when a deeper cleansing is required to remove habitual weaknesses. Trust God to always answer prayers motivated by the Holy Spirit, knowing the answer will be according to His will and in your best interests.

Prayer for Spiritual Warfare

The Holy Spirit will use the gift of tongues to build up our faith in preparation for spiritual warfare, as adequate preparation is vital for an effective battle, and a victorious result.

Spiritual Preparation for Battle

Paul urges, "Be ready in season and out of season. …" (2 Timothy 4:2). We must be ready always by having our faith built up. Once a battle begins, it's often too late to prepare! That's why Jesus cautions, "'Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, …'" (Luke 21:36).

By being prepared ahead of the battle, we align ourselves with God's knowledge of what lies ahead. Without proper readiness, we might lack the necessary faith and knowledge to endure and minister effectively.

Praying in the Holy Spirit benefits us by strengthening our faith and preparing us for battles whether they're days, weeks, or months ahead.

Satan's Understanding of Tongues

Satan and his demon followers can understand human languages and directly influence our thoughts when praying in our natural language; however, Paul says, "He who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for NO ONE understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries" (1 Corinthians 14:2, emphasis added).

The word "mysteries" implies something hidden and secret, something confided only to participants in the conversation. It's possible that God enables us to speak in heavenly languages that are unknown to the forces of darkness.

However, even if Satan could understand the tongues being spoken, our prayers in the Holy Spirit are pure and undefiled before God. Satan cannot interfere with what we're praying to God in tongues nor can he prevent God's answer.

Satan's Focus on Tongues

Praying in tongues provides direct, unhindered communication with God that Satan cannot interfere with or corrupt. Though he attempts to discourage us through doubt and apathy, our Spirit-empowered prayers pierce through every spiritual barrier, reaching God with perfect clarity and supernatural effectiveness.

One of Satan's primary strategies is spreading misinformation about tongues, trying to convince uninformed believers that this powerful gift is no longer active or relevant today. However, this divine ability to pray perfect prayers remains a vital tool for spiritual warfare and intimate communion with God.

The enemy deliberately works to distort the Church's understanding of tongues and other spiritual gifts because he knows their tremendous power. By praying in the Spirit, believers activate supernatural strength that directly confronts and defeats the forces of darkness. This is why Satan strives to prevent Christians from fully embracing and exercising this amazing gift.

As Satan sees his rule over the nations crumbling, he desperately tries to keep believers from discovering the full potential available through praying in tongues. He knows that Spirit-filled prayer releases divine authority and advances the manifestation of God's Kingdom.

This is why he works to keep Christians dependent on natural abilities instead of embracing the supernatural power that comes through exercising the gifts of the Spirit, including the gift of tongues.

Prayer for Fasting

Fasting combined with praying in tongues can have a significant impact on our spiritual lives by inclining our heart to receive revelation from the Holy Spirit and by strengthening our faith in God. Fasting subdues the flesh to reveal the Kingdom.

However, it's important to understand that the beneficial results from fasting and prayer are not always immediate. Sometimes they can manifest long after the fasting period has ended.

For example, after the Holy Spirit had descended upon Jesus, He fasted for 40 days while resisting the devil in the wilderness. It was only after this time of fasting ended that He began His earthly ministry with great faith in the power of the Holy Spirit.

In the Book of Matthew, Jesus speaks clearly about the need for prayer and fasting:

The Greek word ὀλιγόπιστος (oligopistos) translated as unbelief, means lacking confidence, or having little faith.

Jesus prepared them for future encounters with demonic powers and for times when they would need to minister in seemingly impossible situations by encouraging a combination of prayer and fasting to increase their faith and confidence in God.

Prayer for Revelation

Praying in tongues enables believers to tap into revelation directly from the mind of God. It gives us access to those hidden truths that would otherwise remain inaccessible. Only God knows with certainty what our future holds, and His plans for us. And only He knows how to best prepare us for whatever lies ahead.

Paul teaches clearly about receiving revelation from God:

Praying in tongues serves as an open conduit between us and God, enabling us to receive divine revelation that can transform our lives by expanding our awareness, unlocking new areas of spiritual growth, and preparing us for God's plans and the future.

Prayer for Intimacy with God

Praying in the Holy Spirit through the gift of tongues strengthens our intimate relationship with our heavenly Father, allowing us to experience a closeness and belonging that surpasses our human understanding.

Paul emphasizes, "You received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God" (Romans 8:15–16).

Paul underlines the close connection between our spirit and the Holy Spirit. The more we pray in tongues, the more our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit sharpens and deepens, as our spirit links with His. It heightens our ability to hear His voice clearly, and discern and understand His leading and guidance.

Prayer for Praising and Worshiping God

Praising God in tongues leads to a supernatural connection where your spirit communicates with God beyond earthly limitations, expressing a deep flow of reverence, gratitude, and love, leading to worship.

Times of pure worship can enable a seamless transition between praising God in tongues and praising Him in your natural language. Praying in the Holy Spirit benefits us by providing an authentic, personal means to communicate with and worship God on the deepest spiritual level.

Praying in Tongues in Public Settings

In public settings, it's important to maintain order and respect for others by praying quietly in tongues. Remember, your prayer can be effective, whether spoken aloud or whispered quietly under your breath.

Silent Tongues

Did you know that silent prayer in tongues is possible, even in public places? Scripture says, "'The Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts'" (1 Chronicles 28:9). God understands our thoughts completely.

You can pray silently by focusing on the prayer language that the Holy Spirit speaks in your mind. This form of prayer isn't about thinking logically, but about connecting spiritually with God, and you can practice it anywhere and anytime you choose.

When you pray silently in tongues, you can communicate with God without speaking out loud. No one around you will know you are praying, as you won't move your lips or make any sound.

Praying in Tongues Without Ceasing

Praying in the Holy Spirit is a practice that connects you to God's transformative power and enables you to experience His perfect will for your life.

Paul urges, "Rejoice always, PRAY WITHOUT CEASING, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, emphasis added).

From Foundation to Healing: Your Next Stage

Now that you've learned the practical aspects of praying in the Holy Spirit, you're ready to discover one of its most powerful applications.

Continue to Part 2, where we'll explore praying in tongues for healing, revealing how this supernatural gift can be specifically applied for physical, emotional, and spiritual restoration.

Next Article: Praying in Tongues for Healing

Endnote

¹ Coughlin, Peter B., Understanding the Charismatic Gifts, Hamilton: C.C.S.O. Bread of Life Renewal Centre, 1998.

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About the Author

Don Bell is the creator of the Kingdom Anointing website, and a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ. He shares insights from his spiritual journey to encourage ordinary believers to seek God's Kingdom and lead extraordinary lives in the Holy Spirit.

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Hi, I'm Don, and my prayer is Kingdom Anointing™ will help you build faith, walk confidently in the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit, and realize your full potential in the Kingdom of God.