6 My friends, what good would it do, if I came and spoke unknown languages to you and didn't explain what I meant? How would I help you, unless I told you what God had shown me or gave you some knowledge or prophecy or teaching?
7 If all musical instruments sounded alike, how would you know the difference between a flute and a harp?
8 If a bugle call isn't clear, how would you know to get ready for battle?
9 This is how it is when you speak unknown languages. If no one can understand what you are talking about, you will only be talking to the wind.
10 There are many different languages in this world, and all of them make sense.
11 But if I don't understand the language that someone is using, we will be like foreigners to each other.
12 If you really want spiritual gifts, choose the ones that will be most helpful to the church.