Can I be an effective Christian if I'm an introvert?

How do you feel about meeting new people? How about actually approaching them and starting the conversation? Feeling sick, right chest or dry throat? Before becoming a Christian, I was anti-social and would nearly always avoid having friendships outside of school and college. I was shy and didn’t want to attract a crowd. I worried about what others would think of me. But it’s not like that for everyone.

Why does this fear occur?

Pride is an enemy we all share. Will I look silly? Will I say something wrong? The scary thing is there is no second chance of a first impression. My feet are as if they are glued to the floor. I urge myself but it’s in vain. I just won’t move.

What the Bible says

The Bible is clear that we are to be social. Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness (Hebrews 3:13). Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:19-20). Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). How can I encourage others, evangelise and carry-other’s burdens if there is no communication on my end or someone else’s?

How do we get over this fear?

We need to make a decision. By nature, we are social creatures. Whether defined as an introvert or extrovert, we need to have relationships with others. And they may be non-Christians. But we shouldn’t rely on ourselves. Pray the God will give us the strength to make the first line of communication.

Blog by Shona: A bit of a bookworm and I have a passion for writing. I want to bring glory to God in all of my writing and I hope to lead others to Christ.