Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. 2 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. 3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. 4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. (1Co 14:1-4 NKJ)
Paul’s concern was that there was an excess of tongues in the fellowship. These days churches are bringing in the smoke machines, the lights, drama, and more music, all in an attempt to find God, like the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, whipping up a frenzy. It will do us good to remember Elijah’s experience in 1 Kings 19:11-12, “but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.” If you want to find God, you’ll find him in prayer, in the Word and in worship that comes from the heart. But more importantly, you’ll find him in the way you demonstrate love, not only to him but to those around you. Love is the greatest gift, remember Paul’s first exhortation—pursue love.