The Introvert in Church

How an introvert may "recharge." :-)

I am an introvert. Typically, that statement will bring a host of preconceived ideas, definitions, and prejudices with it. In ministry, I think it's of the utmost importance to understand the different personality types that we work with, that we teach, that we disciple, that we mentor, and that we run into on a daily basis. The body of Christ is wonderfully multi-faceted, and it's a great thing to be able to celebrate those differences and value each other's contributions.

The day I discovered, understood, and embraced the fact that I am indeed an introvert was such a freeing day. I was able to more clearly see how God designed me, how to use that design for His purposes, and how to better function in this life. Now, let me clear something up...being an introvert does NOT mean that I am always quiet and hate people. I dearly love people and God has given me the gift of teaching, which means talking is something I enjoy doing (so long as there's some purpose in it!) What being an introvert DOES mean for me is that being around people "drains my tank." In order for it to get filled up again, I need doses of quiet and alone time with the Lord. Below are some resources that helped me gain a better understanding of how to function as an introvert in the church and in society in general, along with the strengths and weaknesses that can come with that personality. 

"For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of yourself than you ought to think, but to think with sober discernment, as God has distributed to each of you a measure of faith. For just as in one body we have many members, and not all the members serve the same function, so we who are many are one body in Christ, and individually we are members who belong to one another. And we have different gifts according to the grace given to us." Romans 12:3-6a

• Introverts in the Dearest Place--an insightful post from The Village Church 
• Introverts in the Church is a book by Adam McHugh. Check out his site and what people are saying about his book.
• Susan Cain has penned a book entitled Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. 

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Are you an introvert or extrovert? How do you appreciate and celebrate  differences in others?