First of all, thank you for your extensive expansion of understanding cults, and this particular essay is very relevant and instructive. As for "tongues" as used in cults, they are not induced by God, but first by faking, with verbalizing gobbledegook encouraged by some charlatan disguised as a Christian leader (self-named and self promoted to that position).

Second, I think you know all this that I've put in my response - besides all the other things you have learned. So, I'm not sure why I felt compelled to write it.

Third, this part of what you wrote is so true and so dangerous for individuals: "If these practices are overemphasized, they may create an imbalance where individuals become more focused on spiritual or mystical experiences at the expense of everyday functioning or reality, potentially leading to neglect of practical responsibilities."

Fourth, sorry for the length of my response. Anyways...

When I was baptized with the Holy Spirit, I did not speak in tongues. One young woman in the group questioned the pastor if I had truly received since I did not speak in tongues. The pastor reassured her that when he had laid hands on me he knew that I did. By this I understand that the gift of tongues is not a sign of maturity as the cult taught. Rather, it follows repentance, receiving Jesus as one's personal Lord and Savior. Then we follow Jesus into water baptism into His Name being introduced into the family of God and discipleship. (Christianity is a walk, not a sacrament.) Baptism in the Holy Spirit seals us until the Day of Redemption and becomes our Advocate/attorney and ever present Teacher, reminding us of what Jesus taught, guiding us as we continue in our walk. Yet, we as an assembly of Believers, are to seek the greater gifts for the greater good. Still and all, the apostle Paul exhorts that without agapé love it is all worthless. I eventually did speak in tongues and found that helpful in my prayer life. Also, I have interpreted someone else who was praying in the Spirit which was giving an edifying message to the group - none of whom I had met before - but who were delighted when they heard that message. This is all in 1 Corinthians 12 and 13 where Paul gives a short dissertation on the gifts of the Spirit and the superior need for agapé love - a part of which is putting others before and above ourselves. That love is spiritual maturity. As for the misuse of "praying without ceasing," I would react facetiously, aying, "A person should be able to walk and chew gum at the same time." What I mean is that when I am unloading the dishwasher rototilling the veggie garden or some other menial task, I also can sing or pray or remember some Bible verse, or plan another menial task that needs to be done, think about political news, etc. etc. etc.It's all good. (Of course operating heavy equipment, my focus has to be on the task at hand, so those other things only can happen when I take a break.)

Thanks again for your essay.