If this scenario sounds familiar, then, like me, shyness is probably a daily struggle.
People typically fall into one of two personality types. Extroverts are those who thrive in social situations. They are the life of the party and are surrounded by groups of people in the hallway. Introverts are those who enjoy solitude or a small group of close friends. They would rather sit back and observe than be observed.
In high school my social life consisted of a good book and family movie night with my parents. Sure, I had a few close friends, but reaching out to make new friends made my hands shake and feet sweat. What if they didn’t like me? What if we didn’t have anything in common? Somehow, I began to turn those “what ifs” into excuses to remain in my shell.
The problem wasn’t my shyness. God had created me as an introvert, and He didn’t want me to be someone I’m not. The problem was that I used it as an excuse to dwell on my anxieties and fears of rejection instead of reaching out to win others for Christ. I thought that when Jesus said in Acts 1:8, “You will be my witnesses,” He was addressing the extroverts of the world—those who lived with friends swarming around them. But that verse is directed toward us introverts as well.
There’s a difference between being an introvert and being insecure. God didn’t create anyone to be insecure. He created us with a specific purpose in mind, but insecurity can only hinder us from reaching our potential. Sure, God created some of us as shy and some as outgoing, but even introverts have special talents for witnessing to expand His kingdom. So how do you witness when talking to people leaves you stumbling over words?
Encourage someone! Does it ever feel as though the only lonely person in the hall is you? A smile on the outside doesn’t always equal a smile on the inside.
Not very long ago, I found my old Bible that I had used when in high school. Inside the cover I found a note written by a friend. Reading the note, I remembered how much that simple note meant to me. It encouraged me to trust in God even when I wondered if He had forgotten about me. It also reminded me that I’m not the only one with insecurities.
Encouragement doesn’t always come in the form of a note. It can also come in the form of a kind word. Sincerely asking how a person is can also be encouraging. She still might come back with a generic “I’m fine,” but at least she knows that someone cares enough to genuinely ask.
Listen up! Just because a person is swimming in a pool of friends doesn’t mean that she has a friend who will listen.
James 1:19 says, “Everyone should be quick to listen and slow to speak.”
It may be rare that a classmate will suddenly open up and spill her guts to you. Trust takes times. But with consistent friendliness and openness they eventually might talk.
Huge responsibility comes with being a good listener. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to give advice, but remember that it might not be advice that they need. Noise is constant. It seems that wherever we go there is noise, and some people at your school are crying to be heard above the hustle and bustle. Be that person to stop and listen.
Lend a helping hand! Behind the scenes is where introverts thrive. And someone who helps can also be a witness for Christ.
It’s easy to believe that if you aren’t “in front,” then your ministry is less important, but that is a lie. Your ministry is just as important as anyone else’s. God created everyone with different strengths in ministry. If everyone was the go-and-get-’em type, then a multitude of people would not be reached. Find your strength.
Sometimes we get so caught up in our insecurities that we forget there is a hurting world around us. Show your classmates that you care. Things may not turn out the way you want them to. Even Jesus was ridiculed at times no matter how much love He displayed, but He didn’t let that stop Him.
Love goes a long way, and you don’t have to be an extrovert to show you care. God specifically designed you with a purpose in mind. Don’t let insecurity rob you of that.
Sumber: Briomag
A very bery good article!!!! Introvert Rule!!!! Yeahhh!!!! Hehehehe....
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