Tongues can be controversial to humans because they are not a human language; they are a special heavenly language gifted to us from the Father as evidence of the infilling of the Holy Spirit.  They edify the believer and strengthen their relationship with the Father.  So how do we use them publicly?  Paul talks about with the power of tongues comes also the power of interpretation, or prophecy.  Through prophesying to people in church (or any gathering) we are able to convict unbelievers of sin and turn people’s heart to God.  When you are able to tell them what is going on in their heart by the power of the Holy Spirit, they realize that it is God speaking through you, that there is no way you could have known that on your own.

Like all fruit of the spirit, patience is critical to spiritual maturity.  Fruit in its best and most optimal form is eaten when it is ripe; when you are mature, that fruit is able to help you become a better person toward others and help you minister to others more effectively.  Your life is a powerful testimony when you were once an angry, selfish person only to be changed by the Lord into a loving and patient person.

Jesus, the most powerful being who came as a man, walked through the persecution of the cross patiently because He had faith that by giving His life for us, we would forever be made free.  Have you made that choice today to give your life to Him?  Do if you want to be forever free.