How to Rely on the Holy Spirit in Uncomfortable Social Situations
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18 (NIV)
Friends, I am not what you would call a natural socializer. I’m totally comfortable around people I know but when it comes to mingling — nope, that’s not in my gifting. As a business owner, I have to talk to a lot of people, mostly new people. And I’m not great at it. At all. One habit I’ve noticed in myself is that I sometimes interrupt people while they’re talking. I don’t mean to, and it’s not because I don’t care what they’re saying. Because I do. Honestly, I think it’s because I’m afraid I’ll forget my own thought if I don’t speak it out right away. I get nervous. But afterwards, I often kick myself, replaying the conversation in my head and wishing I had listened better.
Can you relate? These moments can stir up insecurity and frustration. They can make us feel clumsy in relationships or overly self-aware. Yet even in my weakness, I’ve seen God’s loving hand at work. Praise God that He doesn’t leave me in my flaws but gently teaches me how to grow.
Romans 12:18 tells us, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” That verse reminds me that peace in relationships often starts with the posture of my own heart. Even in awkward conversations, I can choose to slow down, breathe, and allow the Spirit to guide my response instead of rushing to fill the silence.
This week, when I caught myself wanting to interrupt, I tried to pause. Sometimes I failed. But in the moments where I succeeded, I noticed the Spirit gave me patience, and the conversation felt more meaningful. My listening became an act of love.
And here’s the good news: even when I stumble, God’s grace covers me. He isn’t standing by with a clipboard, tallying my interruptions. He’s walking with me, shaping me, and showing me that His Spirit in me is stronger than my habits.
So, if you also find yourself like me fumbling through social moments, take heart. You don’t have to rely on your own strength. The Spirit of God lives within you, empowering you to walk in peace, extend grace, and reflect Christ’s love, even in conversations that don’t go as planned. And if you’re on the receiving end of my social awkwardness, thanks in advance for your kindness and understanding.
Remember:
When social moments feel awkward, the Spirit empowers us to respond with peace and love.
Let’s pray:
Lord, thank You for walking with me in life’s uncomfortable moments. Teach me to listen well and to love others with patience. Help me to pause before I speak, and let my words bring peace, not pressure. May Your Spirit be heard in my voice and seen in my actions. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Let’s grow:
Notice the Habit:
Think of a recent social situation that left you feeling uncomfortable. Did you rush to speak, interrupt, or respond defensively? Write it down without judgment—just observe.Invite the Spirit:
What would it look like to pause in that moment and let the Holy Spirit guide your response? Ask God to show you one simple way to create space for His peace in your conversations this week.Celebrate Growth:
Instead of focusing only on missteps, write down a moment when you did respond with patience or love. How did it change the conversation? Give thanks for the Spirit’s work in you.
SAVE ON PINTEREST!
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Regina is a writer, homeschooling mom, and owner of a comfort food catering business. A contributor to several publications, she is also an advocate for young adults with developmental disabilities and serves on the Compel Pro volunteer leadership team. Living in Ohio with her family, she designs Squarespace websites for fellow creatives and spends her free time cheering her sons from the sidelines or sipping tea while chatting about God’s goodness with women.
