Spiritual Gifts and the MBTI

ISTJ: Administration

The gift of Administration is the ability and strength to manage groups and teams while pushing them towards success. Key Bible verses: 1 Corinthians 14:40, Acts 6:1-7, 1 Corinthians 12:28.

ISTP: Faith

The gift of Faith is the divine ability to see God’s handiwork amidst the most strenuous of times. Key Bible verses: Deuteronomy 31:6, Romans 4:18-21, 1 Corinthians 12:9, Hebrews 11.

ESTP: Evangelism

The gift of Evangelism is the divine strength of leading non-believers towards Christ. Key Bible verses: Acts 8:5-6, Acts 8:26-40, Acts 14:21, Ephesians 4:11-14.

ESTJ: Apostleship

The gift of Apostleship is the strength of building and training leaders for Christ. Key Bible verses: Acts: 15:22-35, 1 Corinthians 12:28, 2 Corinthians 12:12, Galatians 2:7-10.

ISFJ: Help

The gift of Help is the ability to see the needs of others and come alongside them guiding them with support. Key Bible verses: Mark 15:40-41, Acts 9:36, Romans 16:1-2, 1 Corinthians 12:28.

ISFP: Mercy

The gift of Mercy is the divine ability to emphasize with the needs of others, walking with them in their struggles and joys of life. Key Bible verses: Matthew 9:35-36, Mark 9:41, Romans 12:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:14.

ESFP: Giving

The gift of Giving is seeing the places in this world that needs some extra help and providing support with either time, finances, or prayers. Key Bible verses: Mark 12:41-44, Romans 12:8, 2 Corinthians 8:1-7.

ESFJ: Hospitality

The gift of Hospitality is the divine ability to make others feel welcome and wanted wherever they are in life. Key Bible verses: Acts 16:14-15, Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:1-2, 1 Peter 4:9.

INFJ: Discernment

The gift of Discernment is the divine ability to see right and wrong even when it seems masked. Key Bible verses: Matthew 16:21-23, Acts 5:1-11, Acts 16:16-18, 1 Corinthians 12:10.

INFP: Craftsmanship

The gift of Craftsmanship is the unique ability to create and build elements of beauty or items of need to display the love of Christ. Key Bible verses: Exodus 30:22, Exodus 31:3-11, 2 Chronicles 34:9-13, Acts 18:2-3.

ENFP: Exhortation

The gift of Exhortation is the divine ability to comfort, encourage, and urge others to fulfill their purpose. Key Bible verses: Acts 14:22, Romans 12:8, 1 Timothy 4:13, Hebrews 10:24-25.

ENFJ: Teaching

The gift of Teaching is the special ability to guide others towards an understanding involving the many question of life. Key Bible verses: Acts 18:24-28, Acts 20:20-21, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Ephesians 4:11-14.

INTJ: Wisdom

The gift of Wisdom is the divine ability to bring clarity and understanding to situations that seem difficult to navigate. Key Bible verses: Acts 6:3-10, 1 Corinthians 2:6-13, 1 Corinthians 12:8.

INTP: Knowledge

The gift of Knowledge is the special ability to bring truth and understanding towards others questions. Key Bible verses: Acts 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:8, Colossians 2:2-3.

ENTP: Intercession

The gift of Intercession is the divine ability to knowingly and powerfully pray for a person, place, and/or situation knowing that God will listen and answer. Key Bible verses: Hebrews 7:25, Colossians 1:9-12, Colossians 4:12-13, James 5:14-16.

ENTJ: Leading

The gift of Leading is the unique ability to influence and inspire others while pushing them towards success. Key Bible verses: Romans 12:8, 1 Timothy 3:1-13, 1 Timothy 5:17, Hebrews 13:17.

Knowing your Enneagram “Wing”

Every individual is completely unique; thus, no one is purely one enneagram type. We all pull from our wings, some more than others. Some pull from both of their wings equally, whereas others may strictly pull from one in their given season of life. An Enneagram wing is the type that falls directly in front or behind your given type. For example, a Type One can have a 9 wing or a 2 Wing. If you do not know which wing you pull from or want to learn more about the differentiating wings, read down below!

Type 1w9: The Idealist

Type 1’s with prominence in their 9 wing will hold true to their values and morals. They are structured and desire things to be done according to their values and beliefs. This type desires to lead others and better the world along with those around them. Self-reliant, principled, purposeful, and task-oriented this type always has a goal that they are running towards. At times you may catch yourself judging the world around you for not following suit with your values and beliefs. Understand that although there are most definitely truths in this world, there are also other ways to succeed and grow than just what you believe is right. Keep an open mind and an open heart, engaging with others around you my type 1w9 friends!

Type 1w2: The Servant Leader

Type 1’s with a stronger 2 wing are caring advocates for improving the human condition. Compassionate and action-oriented, this type puts a great deal of their energy into their mission. Organized and demanding they desire to better what they can, leaving the world a more beautiful place. If you become too attached to your mission or goal your emotional investment can bring out your perfectionistic tendencies. Understand that life is not perfect and it is definitely not fair, but if you are continuously taking steps forward to better others and the world around you, then you are living in your success. Adapt and stay strong my type 1w2 friends!

Type 2w1: The Altruist

Type 2’s with a focus on their 1 wing have somewhat of a bleeding heart. This type desires to show their loved ones affection and affirmation. Their commitment to serving others stems from their desire to bring happiness to those around them. You will recognize this type by how they associate with the underdogs and desire for their achievement. When you put yourself out there to help others, understand that some people have different opinions and different goals. Do not become critical of others and judgemental of their life if they are not living according to how you think they ought to, but instead love and build relationships with those around you to form a mutual respect. You are not better or above anyone else. You have a strong ability to love, so use this gift true to its form! See the world for what it is and show true love my type 2w1 friends!

Type 2w3: The Giver

Type 2’s with prominence in their 3 wing are gracious hosts who enjoy entertaining their loved ones through hospitality. This type is friendly, supportive, and success driven. They enjoy helping others and want everyone to succeed with them. This type is a true encourager and enjoys bringing joy to others. At times this type can focus on showering those in prominent roles with love and affection to advance their own agenda. Type 2w3’s keep striving towards the goal, and keep loving others hard! If you catch yourself using your love to further your agenda then understand that is not real love, but manipulation. You are charismatic and caring, use your gifts honestly! Love without strings attached my type 2w3 friends!

Type 3w2: The Motivator

Type 3’s with a stronger 2 wing are true optimists who avoid negativity and bring light to others through their encouragement and passion for life. Happiness is the true goal for this type as they encourage and motivate those around them. It is very important to this type to present themselves as positive people. This image can become a mask at times as they desire to present their life as a joyous occasion even when it is not. Remain honest with yourself 3w2’s, because others can grow and be motivated by your real and raw story! Be true to your heart and live authentically my 3w2 friends!

Type 3w4: The Achiever

Type 3’s with a focus on their 4 wing are driven and success oriented in that they want to create a masterpiece with their life. This type desires to be the best and control their image. Self-development and growth are passionate parts of what makes this type special. It is very important and crucial that this type does not get lost in the game of success, but takes the time to admire where they are and what they have done so far. Achievement is an exciting topic, take the time to conduct a reverse bucket list my type 3w4 friends!

Type 4w3: The Individualist

Type 4’s with prominence in their 3 wing will live their life with flair. This type is original, introspective, and unique, which is what they desire to be. The world is their theatre, and they are going to put on a show. Although this type wants to be deemed special and different, they can become moody because of these traits as well. The question of, “why don’t others understand me?” or “why am I different?” can make this type question all that they have done so far. Own your uniqueness and desire to light up the world. Bring beauty and your unique vision to every aspect of life my type 4w3 friends!

Type 4w5: The Artist

Type 4’s with a stronger 5 wing will buy into the notion of self-expression above all. This type does not desire to fit into the crowd but instead live with their own style and uniqueness. Creative, original, and unconventional this type always has a new idea and vision; however, they can lack the desire and follow-through to bring their art to life. Find the motivation to complete your dreams. Focus on setting micro-goals to achieve your large goals. Do not give up my 4w5 friends!

Type 5w4: The Visionary

Type 5’s with a focus on their 4 wing are more introverted and cerebral types. This type is creative, artistic, and analytical. Although they can take a while to warm up to others, they are truly a fun type. It is important for 5w4’s to have the freedom to create and work in an open environment where they are not micro-managed, otherwise, they will become more reclusive. This type needs to be able to own their individuality and feel safe in their circles whether it be at work, with friends, and/or family. With this in mind, try to step out of your comfort zone my 5w4 friends. You see the world differently than others and bring a unique perspective that others want and need to hear!

Type 5w6: The Observer

Type 5’s with prominence in their 6 wing are investigative and observant. Many times this type will see the solution to any given problem before anyone else. This type looks at everyday problems and analyzes how to perfect the negative situations that they witness. This tendency can be observed when we see this type getting to know others. They put up walls and observe how people interact and work with others before letting them in through the doors. Although this type does put up barriers at first they are actually quite social and love to be surrounded by those they trust. It is so important to show others your true self. Do not hide behind your walls, my 5w6 friends!

Type 6w5: The Guardian

Type 6’s with a stronger 5 wing are ethical and security oriented. This type seeks to improve the unjust elements in society and support opportunities that protect their chosen causes. They may see themselves as the guardians for their chosen groups and ideas. This type may become stubborn and lash out against those who do not adopt their cause and fight as this can instigate stress and anxiety. It is crucial that 6w5’s keep an open mind and stay positive as they pursue their causes. Fight for what is right, but do not hurt others in the process, my 6w5 friends!

Type 6w7: The Loyalist

Type 6’s with a focus on their 7 wing are intensely loyal and protective of those they have chosen to love. This type wants a balanced life that is full of happiness, which they plan for. Future-oriented and light-hearted, this type likes to escape into their dreams of how the future should look or will look. When things do not go as planned this type can revert to day-dreaming or other means to escape their frustration. It can be hard to cope with life when those you care about are struggling. Stay positive and deal with the problems at hand. Keep dreaming, but stay focused on the here-and-now as well, my 6w7 friends!

Type 7w6: The Enthusiast

Type 7’s with prominence in their 6 wing strive to make life fun. This type enjoys interacting with others in depth and feels responsible for the happiness of those that have opened up to them. At times this type may take on the role of the jokester or clown to make their loved ones laugh or forget their worries. Entertaining, social, and committed, this type puts a lot of effort into their relationships. This type will begin to doubt their worth if their loved ones are unhappy. My type 7w6 friends, do not find your identity in how others feel but rather find it in Christ. You cannot control how others act or respond, but you can control how you do!

Type 7w8: The Excitement Seeker

Type 7’s with a stronger 8 wing desire to live life to the absolute fullest. This type is engaged with those around them and the experiences surrounding them. This type needs to feel the adrenaline rush of the exciting things this world has to offer. Extroverted, passionate, and success-driven type 7’s with an 8 wing will push aside boring tasks and go for their dreams. At times these types are so focussed on living life so boldly, they let the little and important things pass them by. It is okay to take a moment and reflect on every aspect of life. Before you begin your day try to write down 5 things you are grateful for. Enjoy the little things and take the time to be thankful for all that life has to offer my type 7w8 friends!

Type 8w7: The Rebel

Type 8’s with a focus on their 7 wing desire freedom to do what they wish. This type can go against the grain and proceed towards success in a somewhat unconventional way. Revolutionizing, power-seeking and intelligent, this type has big dreams and they will not let anything get in the way of them and their success. Although this type is very good at whatever they do, they can tend to plow over others and/or compete for what they want. Take your time to consider others around you before you make your move. Always work hard, never let anyone tell you that you cant, but love others through the process towards achievement my type 8w7 friends!

Type 8w9: The Boss

Type 8’s with prominence in their 9 wing are great leaders who take initiative to get the job done. This type challenges others to rise up and complete any given task. Bossy, charismatic, and receptive to other this type knows how to lead a team towards success. Because this type is so inclined to finish every job before them, they tend to overlook their own personal needs. My type 8w9 friends, take time to relax and practice some self-love. It is okay to take a vacation and use some PTO on a spa day or whatever helps you unwind. In order to give your best, you must take care of yourself!

Type 9w8: The Mediator

Type 9’s with a stronger 8 wing are agreeable and good-natured folk. They are great leaders and know how to unite a group towards a common goal or project. This type is authoritative and confident. Sometimes this confidence can go too far when the ego becomes larger than the cause. My type 9w8 friends, although you are a great mediator and leader, do not let these authoritative roles go to your head. Do not pursue power just for power, but rather use your leadership skills to build lasting relationships and bring teams towards success!

Type 9w1: The Peacemaker

Type 9’s with a focus on their 1 wing are easy-going and structured. This type puts a lot of focus on what is right versus what is wrong. Having a strong moral compass they seek to bring peace and joy to where there is suffering. This type focuses on being a good person in every aspect, but tend to get caught up in perfectionism. My type 9w1 friends, it is okay to make a mistake and take risks. We learn and grow from these experiences, which can help us shed more light where there is darkness!

How Each Type Displays Love

ISTJ’s Work

ISTJ’s display their affection through their dedication and hard work! This personality type devotes themselves to their partners. To achieve the job of making their loved ones happy, excites and satisfies their soul! This type will show their love through little tasks such as doing the dishes, cleaning the car, picking up the dry cleaning, etc. ISTJ’s are selfless with their time. Don’t forget to affirm your loved ones my ISTJ friends!

ISTP’s Journey

ISTP’s will take you on their journey if they trust you! This type loves to live in the here-and-now. If they bring you on this ride with them they truly appreciate and adore you! If an ISTP decides to take you with them on one of their adventures they want to share this special part of themselves with you! Continue to experience life to the fullest my ISTP friends!

ESTP’s Excite

ESTP’s will keep you on your toes! This type is extremely spontaneous and is always ready to dive right into an adventure! These thrill seekers will fall head over heels in love. Once they have met their match they will pour all of their energy into the relationship. This becomes a sacred project to them as they find their love story to be their grand adventure!

ESTJ’s Help

ESTJ’s desire to help and be of service when they feel a deep connection. This type of person appreciates honesty and directness. They do not like to waste time with “fluff” but rather get down to the point of it all. With this being said, their feelings for others will not be kept secret. They are committed to putting a great amount of effort into their relationships as they are a success-oriented type. They want to be appreciated by their loved ones and genuinely like to be of service to those they care about.

ISFJ’s Give

ISFJ’s will share sentimental gifts with those they love and feel affection for. This type of person is extremely kind and nurturing. ISFJ’s seek harmony and dedicate themselves to those they care about. Although they may take a while to warm up to others, once they do they will give themselves wholly to those they trust. This loyal and trustful type deeply cares for others.

ISFP’s Act

ISFP’s will continually affirm you with their loving actions. This type can seem like a complete mystery at first, but once they open themselves up to those they love and trust, their partner and friends will never grow bored! ISFP’s live in the moment and like to enjoy the here-and-now. This type of person values actions over words and will relay the same mentality with their relationships.

ESFP’s Motivate

ESFP’s will motivate you to pursue your dreams! This type loves to entertain and excite others. When they find the love of their life their excitement will grow with the success of their loved ones. This type will enjoy the simplest of things, but what they love most is having fun with those they love! ESFP’s are fabulous cheerleaders!

ESFJ’s Provide

ESFJ’s will share their love for you with the world! When they find “the one” this type will show them off. This type will be the one to post multiple photos of themselves and their loved ones on social media. 😉 Their one goal is to provide for their loved ones and make sure they are happy. ESFJ’s feel at peace when the ones they love are happy.

INFJ’s Value

INFJ’s will open up their heart to those they love. When this type looks for a partner and even friendships, it is very important that they connect on a moral level. INFJ’s put their morals far above everything else. If they consider you as a partner or have you in their circle of friends, then you add meaning to their life. This type is extremely intuitive and trust their heart. This type truly values their connection with others.

INFP’s Affirm

INFP’s will write you love letters and poetry to display their affections. These dreamy idealists are the ultimate romantics and desire to find a deep connection with someone who truly gets their artistic soul. INFP’s are extremely kind and considerate humans who will open up and share the beauty of this world with those they trust.

ENFP’s Connect

ENFP’s desire to understand their loved ones deeply. ENFP’s want REAL TALK. They desperately want to understand others at their core. Once they feel like they have found someone that not only understands them but someone that has completely opened up to them, they will give them their heart. Small talk will not work with the ENFP, but true connection will. The connection is HUGE for the ENFP.

ENFJ’s Dream

ENFJ’s will dream up a grand future with their loved ones! This type enjoys life and wants to experience it to the fullest with their partner. It is very important that this type gets to know their loved ones before completely committing to the relationship. ENFJ’s are dependable friends and partners. With this being said, if your ENFJ chose you, then you are very important to them!

INTJ’s Focus

INTJ’s will listen to their loved one’s hearts. This type is full of confidence and intelligence. They will seek relationships that are strong and deep. INTJ’s trust their logic to find that right friends and partner. Although the INTJ is deeply intellectual and focused, they are romantics at heart. Traditionally valued and intuition focused, they will surround themselves with people who help them grow.

INTP’s Share

INTP’s will enjoy discussion their connection to their loved ones. This type is a low maintenance partner. When this type truly trusts and loves someone they will share all of their amazing ideas and theories. The INTP mind is always spinning with new and exciting notions to share with those they trust. This type needs a partner and friends that are intellectually and philisophically stimulating.

ENTP’s Listen

ENTP’s will let you win! This type doesn’t typically shut their mouth, but if they do they are clearly enjoying your presence. ENTP’s are the ultimate debaters and want someone who can also fire back. Witty in responses, this type will never bore you with their jarring comebacks and conversations. When they find their match, they together will take the world by storm.

ENTJ’s Build 

ENTJ’s will let you rule with them! This type works hard at everything they do, especially their relationships. Because their work ethic is so intense and such a big part of who they are, they will refuse to let their relationships fail. Once they have decided on owning their feelings, they will never let you go! (Also, ENTJ’s may seem like bossy-boss’, but they are true softies) 😉

Enneagram: Verses to Encourage You!

Type 1: The Reformer

Galatians 5:10, “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

My Reformer friends, use your special sense of principled self-control for Christ! If we begin to put our hopes, desires, and dreams in mankind we will struggle with the notion of perfectionism; however, if we put those things in Jesus Christ we will feel his grace and freedom!

Type 2: The Helper

Isaiah 55:1, “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

My type two friends, do you help others for selfless reasons or selfish? It is so important and so much more rewarding when you truly help others without expecting anything back in return. Use your intuition to find those places in the world that need some extra selfless love.

Type 3: The Achiever

1 Samuel 16:7b, “For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

My achiever friends, what are you striving towards? This type is so driven and adaptive that they tend to be rather successful in life, but it is so important to look at and consider what “success” truly is to you. Is your heart a success? Are you working hard for the Lord, or for man? I encourage you to analyze what you are trying to achieve!

Type 4: The Individualist

1 Corinthians 12:12-30, “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?”

My artistic friends, own your uniqueness! Do not hide your beautiful soul because it looks different from everyone else’s, but rather display it proudly. God created each and every one of us with unique and special gifts. Wear your strengths proudly! We are not made to look the same!

Type 5: Investigator

Philippians 3:8, “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.”

My investigator friends, as you search for answers in the things of this world I challenge you to turn to the word of God for truth! The Bible is the ultimate textbook for life’s greatest questions. Use your analytical abilities to delve deep into God’s word and help bring light to what it has to offer all of us!

Type 6: The Loyalist

Romans 8:31-39, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

My loyalist friends, don’t be anxious about tomorrow but instead see the intricate details interwoven in your soul about who you are in Christ. As the verse says above, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”. The answer is no one! Nothing can separate you from the love of Christ! Own this truth and wear it like armor.

Type 7: The Enthusiast

Psalms 146:2, “I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.“

My enthusiastic fun-loving friends, use your joy to further the message of Christ! Don’t get caught up in the quick fixes this world has to offer, but rather find your purpose in His plan. You have an energy that is contagious. Just think of all the wonderful things you can accomplish if you use this joy for Christ!

Type 8: The Challenger

Ephesians 2:8-10, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.“

My challenger friends, do you find yourself constantly restless trying to achieve more? Do you feel the need to work constantly to obtain satisfaction? Well, guess what…you don’t need to! Although your work ethic is astounding and you need to own it proudly, it is not your works that God loves, but instead, it’s you! Find rest in knowing that nothing you have done or will do will win you your salvation, but everything Jesus gave did! This is freedom.

Type 9: The Peacemaker

Ephesians 3:14-20, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,”

My peacemaker friends, your kindness and laid back nature are refreshing. These traits of light-hearted love are beautiful, but don’t let your fire go out! Although we need grace, we also need truth! Have the strength to use your kindness to share truth through your love for others! “Clear is kind, unclear is unkind.” -unknown

How I used the Enneagram for self-improvement

If you have not taken the enneagram test go take it right now! Here is a link to a free version of this test online. It takes about ten minutes and is SO worth it. This assessment goes hand-in-hand with the MBTI (Myers Briggs Type Indicator). When using these two personality tests together you can find certain patterns and traits that really seem to link themselves to you!

I took the Enneagram test and got my results back as type two, aka the helper. When I read this I was a bit confused. I decided to actually research what this meant and read more about it in depth. I was shocked at how much this test brought to light regarding who I am and why I respond certain ways. It wasn’t necessarily the positive elements that stood out to me, but rather the negative. That’s kind of how life works though, right? We can read or hear twenty positives, but one negative takes our whole focus. In this instance I was thankful it did.

As I continued to research I saw that type two’s seem to “help” or do things for others because they would want them to be done for themselves. This doesn’t sound too bad until you really delve in. For example, let’s say I notice a friend going through a bad break-up I would think of myself in that situation and what I would want a friend to do for me. I would go bring him/her ice cream, some stupid comedies, and do whatever I could to take their mind off of the situation. Now let’s imagine that the roles are reversed and I am the individual suffering from a bad break-up or something of the sort, and my closest friends don’t do this for me. How do you think I am going to react If I have these expectations of how my friends should treat me and respond? The answer? Probably not too happy…

Once I began to understand this truth about who I am, I kept catching myself becoming bitter when others did not live up to my expectations. This began to hinder my helpful nature and brought a new sense of rage and sadness into my life. How dare these people not treat me the way I treated them? In reality, I had to realize that we are all wired differently. I cannot hold people to this unrealistic vision of what my perfect reality should look like. That notion is impossible and ridiculous.

This reality check has done wonders for me. I am not playing around here, I catch myself every day pulling this pity-party card! When I acknowledged this as a serious weakness for myself I was able to look myself in the mirror and say “get over yourself”.

If I TRULY want to help others, then it needs to be selflessly accomplished. Helping others for selfish reasons is pointless. When you begin to help others “just because”, your heart becomes so much more full!

My fellow type two’s! When you catch yourself doing things for others check yourself. Ask yourself these questions: Am I doing this for myself, or am I doing this for ______? Will I hold this act of kindness over ________’s head? Will I expect reciprocation from those I help? If you honestly ask yourself these questions and the answers come back selfish, then change your mindset. A true helper loves without any strings attached, helps others because they want to add more positivity to the world.

Type two’s are so amazing and have such a special gift for seeing where there is a need in this broken world. Do not use manipulation, but rather use true LOVE!

Luke 6:34-35 states “And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.”

Audible Recommendatio​​n​​s

Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are So You Can Become Who You Were Meant To Be by Rachel Hollis

Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan For Embracing and Achieving Your Goals by Rachel Hollis

The Power Of Habit: Why We Do What We Do by Charles Duhigg

The Road Back To You: An Enneagram Journey To Self-Discovery by Ian Morgan Cron & Suzanne Stabile

The Path Between Us: An Enneagram Journey to Healthy Relationships by Suzanne Stabile

The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings on Authenticity, Connection, & Courage by Brené Brown

The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown

A Million Little Ways: Uncover the Art You Were Made to Live by Emily P. Freeman

Friend of Sinners: Why Jesus Cares More About Relationship Than Perfection by Rich Wilkerson, Jr.

MBTI and the Bible

ENTP: Esther

ENTP’s exude originality, cleverness, and are visionaries. Esther displays many qualities that an ENTP holds; thus, I am naming her an ENTP. This week’s reading is the Book of Esther. Read how Esther’s cleverness and vision helped her reach her potential through a very heart-wrenching time for her and her people. ENTP’s, keep thinking outside the box!

INTP: Solomon

Solomon is the Biblical character that most represents an INTP. Solomon is known by his wisdom and so are the INTP’s. Open-mindedness, wisdom, and analytical thinking are a few of the strengths of the INTP. Read 1 Kings 3:16-28 to witness Solomon’s strengths in action. Use your wisdom for Christ!

ENFP: Peter

My fellow ENFP’s you are similar to Peter. ENFP’s are spontaneous, inspiring, and curious. Peter also displays these strengths numerous times throughout the scriptures. The passage I picked for you is Matthew 4:18-22. I picked this passage as it displays the spontaneity and curiousness Peter and the other disciples had when they first met Jesus. If you feel Jesus tugging on your heart, GO!

INFP: David

David was my first pick for an INFP. INFP’s are idealistic, creative, and loyal. young David to King David transitioned a great amount and grew closer to God through all of the struggles and pain he went through. Although I see David specifically as an INFP, especially through his poetry and yearning for Christ, I selected 1 Samuel 17 as this week’s read. This story is to encourage my INFP’s to stand up to the bully or pursue your dreams even if others tell you they are too big. INFP’s, do not stop dreaming!

ENFJ: Jonathan

ENFJ’s are extremely supportive, reliable, and charismatic. Jonathan displayed those strengths as he stuck by his good friend David’s side. This was a difficult display of affection and loyalty. Jonathan was in the middle of a dangerous fit of jealousy between his father and his innocent friend David. He knew what the right thing to do was and stuck by his convictions. This week I have chosen 1 Samuel 19 for all of you ENFJ’s. Stay true to your heart!

INFJ: Jeremiah

Jeremiah was my pick for the INFJ Biblical counterpart. INFJ’s display insightfulness, altruism, and inspire others through their hearts. This week I have chosen Jeremiah 1 for all of you INFJ’s. Jeremiah initially questioned himself in the role God had placed him in; however, he learned to trust God through his fear. Have confidence and let God use you! INFJ’s have a special skill for discernment. Use your gifts to further the Kingdom of God!

ENTJ: Paul

For my Biblical ENTJ, I have chosen Paul. ENTJ’s are efficient, confident, and inspiring. He is a fascinating Biblical character and truly displays what happens when grace enters our lives. Paul became a very prominent Christian for the early church as he helped expand it and advocate for it. After his conversion, Paul used his strengths to pursue Christ in every way possible. This week’s readings for my ENTJ’s is Acts 27. I chose this scripture as it displays the will of Paul and his faith in the Lord. Throughout the scariest and most stressful moments in his life, he chose to put his faith in Jesus Christ. Pursue what is right!

INTJ: Noah

INTJ’s are strategic, hard working, and independent. We also see these qualities in Noah. God saw Noah as a righteous and faithful man. Noah constantly put his best foot forward and worked towards his goals unwavering. Although others judged Noah for following Gods plan he trusted in it and pursued it wholeheartedly. This week’s reading is Genesis 6-8. INTJ’s do not give up on God’s plan for your life. Push through the struggles of the world and press on!

ESTJ: Deborah

For my Biblical ESTJ I chose Deborah. Deborah was a female prophetess who led Israel for a time. ESTJ’s are dedicated, organized, and honest. This week’s reading is Judges 4. In this reading, you will see Deborah use her strengths to lead the people of Israel. ESTJ’s use your strengths to help others. Sometimes situations that may seem obvious to you seem much more blurry to others.

ISTJ: Luke

Luke was my pick for the ISTJ. Luke was an intellectual and a physician. ISTJ’s are calm, practical, and honest. Although Luke is behind the pen with most of his biblical interactions we can gain some insight as to who he was through his writings. This week’s reading is 2 Timothy 4. I encourage you to read the book of Luke as well. Luke is not the writer of this passage, but I chose this passage to encourage you to use your gifts to help provide insight into what is right and what is wrong.

ESTP: Rebekah

Rebekah is my ESTP pick. ESTP’s are perceptive, sociable, and practical. For this week’s read, I have chosen Genesis 24, 25:19-34. Although this story displays Rebekah using her strengths in a negative way, let this be a reminder as to what we should do with our strengths. Use this knowledge to better others instead of using your strengths to manipulate. ESTP’s are extremely savvy individuals and know how to work a crowd. With this skill you can excite others push them towards Christ!

ISTP: Rahab

ISTP’s are optimistic, analytical, and quick-witted. We see these strengths manifest themselves in Rahab. This woman has a very interesting story and through the odds chose to follow her heart. The scripture for this week’s reading is Joshua 2. Rahab let the Lord speak into her life and was a huge part of the success of the Israelites. Let the Lord speak into your life!

ESFJ: John

John was my pick for an ESFJ. ESFJ’s are loyal, caring, and practical. John the Apostle was extremely loyal to Jesus and the gospel. This week’s reading is 1 John 1, 2:15-17. These scriptures that John wrote are powerful verses on good vs evil. Use your providing nature to show others the good in this world and point them back to Christ.

ISFJ: Mary

Mary is the Biblical ISFJ. Mary was chosen to carry the King of King’s and to be his mother. ISFJ’s are supportive, reliable, and imaginative. Mary was all of these things as she took on this scary role as an unmarried pregnant woman in a time where she could be seriously punished for this. She was a supportive and reliable mother. This week’s read is Luke 1:26-56. As we look at Mary and how she took this news, let us use are supportive and reliable gifts to help others in need!

ESFP: The Prodigal Son

Although this is only a parable, the prodigal son is a good representation of an ESFP who has lost their way but humbled themselves to find the right path back. ESFP’s are bold, entertaining, and observant. This week’s read is Luke 15:11-32. We see these strengths also become the prodigal son’s downfall as he begins to live a life just for his entertainment. Although having fun is great, make sure that we are living a life pleasing to God. He provides us with guidelines for a happy life. Use your gifts to excite people about Jesus!

ISFP: Adam

My pick for an ISFP would have to be Adam. ISFP’s are curious, charming, and imaginative. Adam had to hold these qualities as he saw so many new and exciting things. He also got to use his imagination to name the animals that were created. This week’s reading is found in Genesis 1-2. Immerse yourself in the wonder of our God. He has the ultimate imagination! Use yours!

Knowing Yourself- About the Author

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” -Howard Thurman

Are you where you want to be? Do you know who you want to be? Self-awareness can provide us with the necessary tools to successfully build upon our strengths and acknowledge personal weaknesses. Being self-aware can help us all understand ourselves so that we may better serve our creator. My name is Lindy and I am an ENFP!

When I first took the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test I was a freshman in college and so conflicted on my goals and dreams for myself. One of the reasons I had such confliction was my life had drastically changed within a day. I had injured myself and was in a major slump. I had received my sixth concussion playing volleyball. My sixth concussion playing the sport I loved would become my greatest blessing, but at the time it had felt like a confusing punishment. I had played volleyball for years and had earned my spot as the starting libero for the university I played for. Volleyball for me was a sport that I loved and my talent. I never truly thought of myself separate from the sport; therefore, I had found a good part of my identity in that game. This community that I had grown into through all of the highs and lows was taken from me in an instance. Who was I without volleyball? When I heard the doctor tell me my volleyball career was over I felt the weirdest feeling of confusion and peace. I did not think you could feel both of those emotions at once, but I had. Now I had a new sense of excitement for the future and other potential paths for myself. I was optimistic.

As I began to dream I began to get agitated. One of my struggles was that I genuinely liked everything, but did not love anything. I jumped between degree programs and career ideas without truly sticking with anything. Any idea that seemed worth daydreaming about would begin to fade for me as soon as the dream began; thus, I could not keep a consistent dream in place. I began to lose hope for a successful career as I could not successfully make up my mind! I did not know myself outside of volleyball.

At the time of this confusion, I was freely given the MBTI test by a school counselor who had felt bad for me due to my concussion and lack of activity. I had absolutely no idea what this test was and how much it would inspire me to be a better person, but also call out my obvious flawed tendencies that needed some fixing. The results were life changing.

I had taken the extensive MBTI test, which was enormous and took several days to complete. When I got my results back I was eager to look for clues and advice as to who I was and what I should be. My results were four letters. Four letters I had no idea what they meant and what a reality check it would be for me and my life. ENFP. Extravert, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving are what those four letters stood for. By themselves, they have no merit, but together they have helped provide the shaping of my cognitive functions. Why do I respond the way that I do? Why do I have these tendencies? Many answers were found in my results.

Many of these truths these results provided me were obvious traits I had owned my whole life proudly; however, it was the weaknesses that were so life-altering. “Poor practical skills”, “has difficulty focusing”, “overthinks situations”, “highly emotional”, “stressed easily”, etc. These flaws that I carried quite obviously were hindering me from following through with my many hopes and dreams. These weaknesses were prominent in continued lies I would tell myself about my dreams and about my goals. Quitting became the common theme with my numerous exciting ideas. Instead of pushing past the negativity that I believed to be true about myself, I would give up. I told myself this notion of giving up would end right then. This was a promise I made to myself.

I began to look at my strengths and weaknesses in a different light. They exist, but I can grow them, I can change them! Many people will read their strengths and weaknesses and laugh about how true they are, but why not use your results as a guide that this is where you are, but it is not where you will end. Will I always struggle with my weaknesses? Absolutely! I have decided on acknowledging that I am flawed and that I cannot do it by myself, but in fact, I need a lot of help. This reality check pushed me into reading other truths. The truths I am referring to are the words God has spoken over me and over you. God has a plan for you. Wake up and desire His will! We are all unique, we are all beautiful. I will be a soldier for Christ, will you? I am creative, and I am passionate, I am caring, I am curious, and I know how to set aside time to enjoy life. My fellow ENFP’s, are you struggling to pursue your many dreams? If so work hard and press on for Christ! Find your motivation in Him!

Volleyball was a passion and taught me many amazing life lessons, but my identity is not found in a sport anymore. My identity is found in Jesus Christ. Where do you find your identity? Do you find it in work? In a relationship? How about in your role as a parent? If you find your identity in these things of this world you will not find true joy. You will not be living in your potential.Your strengths are probably different from mine, and God needs different soldiers to carry out his message. My role may differ from yours, but I will use my gifts and I hope you acknowledge and use yours!

Much love,

𝐿𝒾𝓃𝒹𝓎 𝒜𝓃𝓃 𝑅𝒶𝓂𝓈𝓁𝒶𝓃𝒹