Paul is expressing his gratitude for the gift of speaking in tongues, which was a prominent spiritual gift in the early Christian community. His statement is not meant to boast about his own abilities but to set the stage for a larger discussion about the use of spiritual gifts within the church. Paul acknowledges the value of speaking in tongues, yet he emphasizes that this gift should be used in a way that benefits the entire church community.
In the broader context of his letter, Paul encourages believers to prioritize gifts that edify the church, such as prophecy, which can be understood by all and thus more directly contributes to the spiritual growth of the community. His message is a reminder that while personal spiritual experiences are valuable, they should not overshadow the importance of love, understanding, and the communal aspects of worship. Paul’s gratitude for his gift is tempered by his desire for all gifts to be used in a way that promotes unity and strengthens the church as a whole.