Reading this verse in context we understand that Paul is dealing with the issue of the gift of tongues in the Church, and the need for understandable speech.

However, there are those who never open their mouths in the assembly meetings to praise or pray or read a portion of Scripture or speak a word of ministry. Some are afraid or have an inhibition, thinking that they are not eloquent, comparing themselves to others. Let us be encouraged by several scriptural examples to do what the Lord desires.

Moses, when told by God to speak to Pharaoh, said he was a man who was not eloquent and was slow to speak. So God reminded him that He made man’s mouth and He would be with Moses’ mouth. (Ex. 4:10–12). When the man who had been liberated of the legion of demons wanted to follow the Lord, the Lord did not allow it; instead He told the man to return home to his friends to tell them what the Lord had done for him. How much Bible knowledge did he have? What did he know? He could testify the “five words,” what the Lord had done for him (Mk. 5:18–19). Jonah was told to preach in Nineveh: “Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!” (Jon. 3:4)—eight words in English but only five in Hebrew. And with what result? The whole city was saved! Amos also had a solemn, but short, five-word message for Israel: “Prepare to meet your God” (Amos 4:12).

When we come together, each one is to have a psalm, a teaching, or other expression from the Lord (1 Cor. 14:26). May we faithfully give what the Lord wishes us to give. When each servant was given a talent, the master commanded them, “Do business till I come” (Lk. 19:13)—only five words. As limited as we may feel or be, the Lord does not require from us more than we are able. Only five words!