“… I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt.” Psalm 139:14 (CEV)

Are there moments of your life that feel like photographs in your mind? You remember every detail. You can recall what you were wearing. When you think back, you tell yourself, “That was when everything started to change.”

One of mine happened at a campus ministry meeting in college. I sat cross-legged on gray carpet in an old building that smelled like coffee. I wore a red shirt and jean shorts. It was then I heard the word “introvert” for the first time.

I instantly felt less alone and more understood. But for years, my understanding of being an introvert still focused on what I didn’t like (small talk) or didn’t want to do (go to parties every night). But that’s not the whole story, or even the most important part, of being an introvert or extrovert.

Maybe you’ve struggled with self-doubt too. You might be an introvert who’s been told you’re too quiet. Or maybe you’re an extrovert who’s heard, “Quiet down!” Either way, what I want you to know today is that God made us introverts and extroverts intentionally.

I’ve now spent years as a counselor, life coach and author studying why we’re introverts and extroverts. The short version: It’s not because of our personalities but because of ways we’re physically wired, especially in our brains and nervous systems. I believe God created introverts and extroverts as a complementary pairing, each with gifts and tremendous potential.

Because our culture leans a bit more pro-extrovert right now, it’s often harder for introverts to embrace that truth. But I believe it’s essential not just for individual introverts but for those around us too.

After that moment in college, I still spent a long time trying to be someone I wasn’t, and it took me to the brink of burnout. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, maybe you’ve done the same. I now know true freedom and joy come not from trying to become someone else, but by embracing who God created us to be.

You are one of a kind. There has never been another you, and there never will be. Every detail of who you are was designed by God. He crafted your quietness. He came up with your crazy laugh. He made you empathetic or enthusiastic, creative or concrete, a deep thinker or fast talker. Nothing about you is a mistake or an accident.

The opposite of self-doubt isn’t pride; it’s holy confidence. As the psalmist said, “… I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt” (Psalm 139:14). When we understand who we are, it leads to praise and empowers us to fulfill our God-given purpose.

I wish I could go back to that college girl in jean shorts. I’d take her by the hand, lift her up, look her in the eyes and say, “You have nothing to prove. You don’t need to change. You’re already loved. Dare to be who you truly are.”

Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, I’m saying the same to you today.

God, thank You for creating me in a wonderful way and reminding me that I am loved today. Give me the courage to be who I am and to help others do the same. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY

Galatians 6:4-5, “Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.” (MSG)

RELATED RESOURCES

Are you an introvert? Or do you love, lead or share life with one? Then you’ll enjoy Holley’s insightful new book, The Powerful Purpose of Introverts: Why the World Needs You to Be You! (It’s also a great book club pick.) And this is your last chance to get more than $75 of free bonuses when you order. Get your book and bonuses before they’re gone!

CONNECT

None of us are 100% introvert or extrovert. To find out how much introvert you have in you, take Holley’s free, one-minute quiz, “What Percent Introvert Are You?”.

REFLECT AND RESPOND

What self-doubts have you struggled with in the past? What’s the truth about who God says you are today and always?

© 2020 by Holley Gerth. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries thanks Baker Publishing Group for their sponsorship of today’s devotion.

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