“He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.”
— 1 Corinthians 14:4 (KJV)
The Bible tells us that when we pray in the Spirit—especially in tongues—we edify ourselves. To edify means to build up, strengthen, or improve. In other words, prayer is not just communication with God; it is also spiritual construction work within ourselves.
When Scripture encourages us to give ourselves continually to prayer, it is not merely to fulfill a religious duty. It is because prayer, particularly Spirit-led prayer, is a means of inner transformation. We are literally building ourselves up in Christ every time we pray.
Even when we’re not asking for anything specific—just dwelling in God’s presence—we are being edified. Transformation takes place. As Paul wrote to the Corinthian church, “We all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory…” (2 Corinthians 3:18).
This truth is powerfully illustrated in the story of Moses. After spending time with God on Mount Sinai, his face began to radiate God’s glory. While our transformation might not be visibly dramatic like Moses’, Scripture says the glory we carry through the Spirit is even greater (2 Corinthians 3:7–11).
Jude 1:20 also echoes this truth:
“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.”
— Jude 1:20 (KJV)
When we pray in the Holy Spirit, we are not just surviving spiritually—we are thriving, growing stronger in faith, character, and intimacy with God.
So today, don’t wait until you feel like it. Choose to pray in the Spirit. Prioritize time in God’s presence. Whether in silence or in tongues, you are being built, strengthened, and transformed.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the privilege of prayer. Help me to grow in the discipline of praying in the Spirit. As I spend time in Your presence, may I be continually built up in faith and transformed into the image of Christ. Amen.
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