Why Aren’t You More Popular?

Ever wonder why some people are simply outgoing and charismatic, while others seem to be the polar opposite and are shy, withdrawn, and reserved? Now some scientists are suggesting that your personality might be partly controlled by your genes as much as your environment.

The new study looked at data on 1,100 twins, some identical and others fraternal. James H. Fowler, an associate professor of political science at the University of California, San Diego, and lead author of the research project, said of the study, "We've identified some, and we're waiting for further tests for verification." Fowler further commented, “The new insights won't help turn a wallflower to a social butterfly. Genetic engineering is very difficult, but mostly because social behavior stems from the interplay of genetics and upbringing.”

One’s personality certainly affects life on almost every imaginable front. It can be a great asset to some and a severe handicap for others, depending on how individual tendencies are allowed to affect the outlook on life and on what things are pursued or avoided. People are known to others as much for their personalities, perhaps, more than for any other feature.

With that considered, how important is the personality of any given individual? While it may have bearing on the overall popularity with his or her peers, it has no real relevance to the God who is the author of all life. Scripture repeatedly states this fact. Paul addressed it in Romans 2:11. "For there is no respect of persons with God.” Then Peter does the same in 1 Peter 1:17. “And if you call on the Father, who without respect of persons judges according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear.” He again mentions the issue in Acts 10:34. “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.”

Then, too, there is the episode seen in 1 Samuel 16:1-7 where David is anointed king. The Lord had been conveying to Samuel the right qualifications for the one who would lead the nation. Samuel was keying in on external qualifications and characteristics. But God made it clear as to true priority is verse 7. “But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

There is no doubt that one’s personality, economic status, and physical traits can at times have impact on the choices that are made and the life that is lived. But in God’s eyes, these things are of no value on any level that matters.

But He does expect certain things, regardless of whatever personalities His people may possess or what life they live. First, He expects inner joy despite outward circumstances. “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (James 1:2-3) Then also God expects service to His own to display a loving attitude, cheerful spirit, and a serious use of whatever gift, or gifts, He has imparted.

“And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." (1 Peter 4:8-10)

Your personality may, or may not, make you popular around those with whom you have regular contact. And few things can make you less popular than speaking out and sharing the love of Jesus Christ. But popularity on the human level is overrated. It is fragile, fleeting and often phony. What counts most is being popular with God and God’s people and for all the right reasons. This is what brings true and lasting value along with the real potential for absolute peace and satisfaction about who you are in Christ!

Why Aren’t You More Popular? Perhaps that initial question should be rephrased to ask, Who are you more popular with – and why?

Bill Breckenridge