Help! I’m a Preacher and I’m an Introvert

Can a man be an introvert and a preacher?

I hope so, because I am one.

Now, some of you read that and think I am not telling the truth about myself. Some of you know that I enjoy events like Polishing the Pulpit where there are thousands of people. I preach for around 300 people each Sunday morning. I will even get on a stage at camp and act silly in front of the whole crowd. How can I say I am an introvert?

One of the great misconceptions about introverted people is that they don’t like being around other people. That is not at all what being an introvert entails. Obviously, some introverts do not like a lot of interaction, but that is not what the word means.

Being an introvert just means that being around people drains you of your energy. By contrast, an extrovert gets energy by being around others. They go to an open house or a class reunion and their energy levels soar from being around other people. Introverts go to those same events and enjoy their time, but they are exhausted when the event is done and they need to find a way to recharge.

You may think that being an introvert is a hindrance to preaching, but it isn’t, so long as it is handled well. I am by no means perfect in this, but I want to share with  you some things that I have learned (or am still learning) as an introverted preacher that may help other preachers who are introverts.

1. Smaller groups help. I love being in the foyer before worship shaking hands and greeting people, but it wears me out quickly. However, in a Bible class of 15-25 people, I do not feel as tired interacting with people. Do both, but realize that you are going to probably be worn out if you try to interact with the entire congregation before and after every service. This is also why I enjoy having people over to our house. The group is small, and the surroundings are obviously comfortable and calm.

2. Budget your time. A lot of introverts use their introversion (what a word!) as an excuse to avoid being around people during the week. You must visit. Say it with me: “I must visit.” I have found that a couple of visits in a day are fine, but if I have a day where I make a lot, I am worn completely out. Use that knowledge to make good use of your time.

3. Remember your family. This is going to sound cruel, but my family drains me, too. That’s not negative, and it’s not because they are bad people (obviously!); rather, it’s because I am introverted. However, if I let meeting after meeting and visit after visit drain me until my energy tank is at zero, what will I have left for my wife and children? They deserve more than just the fumes left at the end of the day, so figure out how you can re-energize before heading home.

4. Be introspective outwardly. Often, introverted people are very good at looking within. Sometimes that can be a bad thing, because they beat themselves up over shortcomings. However, it can be an advantage, because they are often deep thinkers and want to be very careful and thoughtful in what is communicated. Let that come out in the pulpit, in classes, in articles, and any other communication you may have.

5. Respect extroverts. Extroversion vs. Introversion is not a salvation issue, but it can lead to clashing personalities, if we are not careful. Just as you would like for others to respect your need for alone time or even your quietness, you need to respect how extroverts literally need people around them to draw energy.

6. Express your love for people. Thankfully, though it tires me, I enjoy talking with people around worship services or around town. Some, however, really struggle to do this because it drains them so much that they do not enjoy it. You must find a way to reach out to people. Send tons of cards or write thoughtful emails. Make one-on-one visits if you struggle in larger groups. Use Facebook or Twitter to really encourage folks. Most people will understand more your quietness in public if they see your love throughout the week.

As an introvert, I know there are challenges. I also know that it seems strange for a preacher to admit he is introverted. But introverts can be effective in the ministry, both with the Word of God and helping people. In fact, my prayer is that somehow God will use my introversion to reach many, many souls to His glory.

QUESTIONS: What are some advantages to being an introvert? What about some challenges? Please share your thoughts in the comments.

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Photo credit: Robert Tellier on Creative Commons

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