Lead Me to the Rock

The Spiritual Struggle of an Introvert in an Extroverted Church

Nearly half of all people are introverted to some extent. Yet much of church life and culture has developed with extroversion as the default setting. This has left many introverted and shy people feeling inadequate, unappreciated, and even unwelcome. Sharing from the perspective of a shy introvert operating in a loving but extroverted church culture, Michael Burns draws on his own experiences as well as a series of podcast conversations with fellow misfits J. Brian Craig and Reggie Hearn to cast a vision of a church that embraces, celebrates, and utilizes introverts and extroverts alike.

Coming from the perspective of someone who knows what it is like to feel like a spiritual imposter constantly, Michael brings a personal touch to answer questions that many introverts carry with them on their spiritual journey:

— If I struggle with the idea of praying in public, is there something wrong with me?

— If I become filled with anxiety at the mere thought of talking with people I don’t know or cold-contact evangelism, am I unspiritual?

— If my social battery drains quickly at church events and I just want to be alone, am I unloving?

—Am I a burden on my spiritual community because I am not as outgoing and personable as others?