There is no place for introversion in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ.

Before I lose every introvert reading this, let me walk that back and give some context as well.

There are multiple parts to the idea of introversion. The two most common are as follows:

1. A tendency to “recharge” while alone. This type of introversion requires time alone to remain sane. Being around people is a physically draining thing.

This is not what I’m referring to.

2. A tendency to keep people at arms length. More than that, this type of introversion tends toward statements of “hating people” as a group. It paints with broad strokes the lackluster nature of humanity while considering itself greater.

This is beyond being simply “not ok”.

As followers of Christ, we won’t all have tremendous gifts of evangelism, but that doesn’t free us from being called to love everyone…all the time. Jesus said that we would be known by our love for each other, and while I believe in that context He meant how Christians love each other, He also said to love our enemies, so there’s no loophole here.

If you’re a Christian who “hates people”…I urge you to check your heart, because something there doesn’t add up. Furthermore, don’t try to love people better. You can’t. Our calling card must be love, but let’s not forget Who makes it possible.

In all things, pursue a closer relationship with Christ. This truly is my answer for everything, but I’m not the least bit apologetic about that.

Want a better marriage? Draw closer to Christ.

Want to be happier? Draw closer to Christ.

Want to know what you should do next with the ______ in your life? Draw closer to Christ.

Want more love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control? Draw closer to Christ. These are the fruit of the Holy Spirit. They are the fruit of caring for your relationship with Christ.

I’ve wandered somewhat from my point, but I think I’m ok with that. Let’s bring it back around though.

Introverts, I have been one of you. I call myself a “recovering introvert”. I say this because I still recharge in solitude, and if I fill my social calendar too full, I will go crazy. But the Lord has shown me that I can be vulnerable and transparent with trusted church family, and that there is so much healing there. He’s shown me that I can love others, and let them in so they can love me.

It used to be that I could walk away from people I’d known for years and I was fine. I’m thrilled to say that version of me is gone. If you’re in my life, I care about you. I won’t do it perfectly, and I have so many old habits to break, but I care about you, and I love you. If you go away, I’ll miss you.

If you can relate to the idea of hating, or even not liking people (generally), I don’t judge you, but I do hurt for you, and I hope you will find a way to see others the way Jesus does. Because…and I can’t say this with enough grace, so please hear my heart in this…He doesn’t just not hate them, but loved them enough to die for them.

Heavenly Father, give us grace to love those that are unlovable. Draw us closer to you, so we can gain some of Your perfect perspective, specifically as it pertains to the people in our lives.