Hey ladies! So I really wanted to make this a post topic because it's actually something I've been able to learn and discover about myself as well as practice lately in this season of my life. When I hear the word "HOSPITALITY", it sounds like a dignified word and has such valuable meaning to it. It comes with honor, respect, service, and humility. But in the eyes of the introvert it can also be one of the scariest and overwhelming processes to experience and have to endure through. If you are an introvert, you know exactly what I mean! But with Jesus there is always hope ladies! There is always a WAY! First, let's just go through the description of an introvert and what it means to be one: An introvert is characterized as someone who is predominantly concerned with her own thoughts and feelings. They prefer smaller groups, or one on one convos as opposed to larger groups because it requires all their energy. Introverts need a place of solitude to function properly. A place of solitude helps the introvert to regain energy. Its not just a luxury but its as vital to an introvert as the air we breathe. Its a time to think, reflect, and regroup. (So you can imagine how hard it may be to come home from a long day or being home all day having to run errands, take care of the kids and have to have unexpected visitors or family over.) Secondly, Introverts are very detailed oriented and goal focussed. They are effective in controlled events as opposed to random gatherings. They prefer meetings, gatherings, other social interactions, etc. to be planned ahead of time (even if its just 15 min ahead of time). Lastly, Introverts----most of the time----are quiet. (It doesn't mean they are shy or antisocial though its possible). Introverts just have to think on things before speaking and again that requires a lot of energy. Do I really have to respond to that? How should I respond to that? Now, that may sound like laziness, but I think its just how we've been created. Small talk can be a challenge when meeting new people. Even when its someone we've recently met or have known for a while. There are quite a few posts and articles online through google, about introverts and extroverts if you'd like to know more about their personalities but now let's put all of what I've just shared in a christian perspective. The question now is... How do I---an introverted christian woman--practice hospitality? Well, what does the Bible say about how we are to treat others in regards to hospitality? The Bible says: Romans 12:13..."When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality." 1 Peter 4:9..."Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay." Matthew 25:35...For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home." One verse in particular that has helped me in learning this especially because we are so INTO ourselves is: "Do to others as YOU would like them to do to YOU." Luke 6:31 During this season of my life, it was a challenge accepting the type of personality I had but aligning it and submitting it to the Word of God and what God wanted me to do. I had to know that not only was I created this way but I was still His, so being obedient to Him was important. So sis, if you are an introvert struggling with hospitality, go to His word about it and also pray that God would help you to obey Him in this way. God's word always provides some type of instruction and guidance to deal with life's struggles. There are people hurting in the world today who need to see Jesus and in more ways than one, hospitality does that. You no longer see yourself but the interest of another. Thats what Jesus when He died for us. So be encouraged my introverted sisters!!! Be encouraged!
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