7. It is the same as with non-living things that make sounds—like a flute or a harp. If different musical notes are not made clear, you will not know what song is being played. Each note must be played clearly for you to be able to understand the tune.
8. And in a war, if the trumpet does not sound clearly, the soldiers will not know it is time to prepare for fighting.
9. It is the same with you. The words you speak with your tongue must be clear. Unless you speak clearly, no one can understand what you are saying. You will be talking in the air!
10. It is true that there are many kinds of speech in the world. And they all have meaning.
11. So unless I understand the meaning of what someone says to me, we will be like strangers to each other.
12. It is the same with you. You want spiritual gifts very much. So try most to have the gifts that help the church grow stronger.