DIFFERENT BY DESIGN

For years, I thought I needed to change to be useful to God. I believed true leadership had to be loud–that spiritual boldness meant always speaking up, and that visibility equaled value. This had two impacts on me. The first was that I felt undervalued because I didn’t fit the mold, and the second was that I was exhausted.

Merriam-Webster defines an introvert as “a typically reserved or quiet person who tends to be introspective and enjoys time alone.” When thinking about who I am, I’m naturally quiet. I prefer listening over speaking. I’m more comfortable in small groups rather than crowds. I am the classic introvert. Throughout my life, the fact that I’m an introvert caused me to think that I was less effective, less faithful even. Slowly, however, God began to shift my perspective. I started to see that quiet strength isn’t a flaw to fix, it’s a gift to steward.

Jesus himself often withdrew to quiet places for solitude. He did teach and preach to massive crowds, but on many occasions, He was found to be spending time with a much smaller group or even by Himself.

A quick survey of the scripture reminds us that God honors quiet faith. He met Elijah when he was alone in a cave and spoke in a whisper rather than the loud wind. When God called Moses from the burning bush, Moses responded with hesitation, saying, “I am slow of speech and slow of tongue” (Ex. 4:10 NKJV). Moses even asked God to send someone else. Moses preferred to stay behind the scenes. Remember that when Moses saw the burning bush, he was alone on the back side of the desert tending his father-in-law’s sheep. The fact that God was calling him to stand before Pharaoh and lead a massive group of people made Moses uncomfortable. Even Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, demonstrated character through quiet obedience and thoughtful action. Do you realize that there is not one recorded instance in the scripture where Joseph spoke? His silence and calm, decisive actions suggest a reserved and inwardly strong personality.

I know without a doubt that God has called me to serve alongside my husband in ministry. This knowledge did not suppress the questions that would arise from time to time. Questions like, Why can’t I be more like her? Why can’t I be more outgoing and talkative? Why don’t I feel more comfortable in a crowd? Over time I’ve learned that God did not create me to be like others. It took a while for me to realize that God made me to be exactly who I am. God designed me and fashioned me just like I am so that He could use me to fulfill His purpose. I may not be the person who operates in the forefront, but God formed and fashioned me and set me apart while I was still in my mother’s womb (Ps. 139:13).

I have come to understand that introverts are no less called, no less capable, and no less faithful than anyone else. In fact, God can use introverted people in powerful ways. If you feel out of place in a loud room or a large crowd, that doesn’t mean that you are not as effective or useful to God. On my journey, God has taught me to stop apologizing for being a quiet person. I’ve learned to allow God to use my strengths and traits to minister to others. I realize that God values me just the way that He made me. I’ve also discovered that I thrive in roles where care, thoughtful reflection, and a listening ear are not only needed, but deeply valued.

I love people, but I also need solitude and silence. A dear friend taught me that there are instances where our “people meter” can become full. When that happens to me, I need a time of solitude and silence so that I can recharge.

Being an introvert isn’t a limitation–it’s a gift! More importantly, it’s a gift that God can use. My voice may not be the loudest, and I may not need to be the center of attention, but I can have an impact on others by just being me. I now know that God sees and uses quiet people. He uses people who listen more than they speak. There are times when He is eager for people to sit at His feet in quietness like Mary of Bethany, even though the room is buzzing with activity.

Introverts are not lesser leaders, weaker witnesses, or background characters in the story of faith. We are simply different by design. We each experience and express God’s presence in the way He designed us to. As Psalm 139:14 (NKJV) says, “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Different isn’t less—it’s intentional.

Introverts may not always be the ones holding the microphone or standing on the stage, but we know that God can use us to accomplish His purpose. Growing to understand and accept this has given me increased joy and peace. Yes, I’m an introvert, and that’s exactly who God created me to be.

BIO

Born and raised in the Richmond, VA area, Wanda has distinguished herself as a leader in various ministry settings. She served as a pastor’s wife and local women’s ministry leader for 18 years. For the past 14 years she, and her husband Mark, have been serving as State/Regional leaders for the denomination. During this time Wanda has been a state Girl’s Club coordinator and the Regional Women’s Ministry president. A priority for her is her desire to encourage and uplift the wives of local church pastor’s. Wanda has two adult daughters that are married to fantastic Christian gentlemen. She also has five granddaughters that call her Gram. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and sipping sweet tea.