A Call for Repentance - Day 36: Forgive me Lord for allowing intimidation to keep me from being obedient to You.
- araratchurch
- Sep 30, 2024
- 2 min read
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”
2 Timothy 1:7 AMP
Intimidation is a real thing. I’m not sure there is anyone who could say that they have never felt intimidated. It’s generally just a matter of the degree to which we feel that intimidation, as well as the type of challenges or situations that make a particular person vulnerable to being intimidated.
Intimidation—through bullying or extortion tactics—keeps a person from doing what they would ordinarily do if that pressure were not present.
Intimidation can leave its victim feeling weak, ashamed, helpless, and yes, angry. Now this anger may be expressed by turning it inward (depression), explosive outbursts, or even panic. Even worse, intimidation can cause us to dishonor the Lord.
David had real cause for fear and intimidation. But instead of cowering from his enemies, he brought his case before the Lord.
“I have heard the many rumors about me, and I am surrounded by terror. My enemies conspire against me, plotting to take my life. But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying, “You are my God!” My future is in your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly. Let your favor shine on your servant. In your unfailing love, rescue me. How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world. You hide them in the shelter of your presence, safe from those who conspire against them. You shelter them in your presence, far from accusing tongues.”
Psalms 31:13-16, 19-20 NLT
Just as Paul tells Timothy in our opening scripture, the Spirit the Lord has given us—His very own Holy Spirit—is not subject to intimidation (fear).
With God’s help, we will always be able to do what is right, never allowing intimidation to cause us to shrink back from obedience to the Lord.
Let’s ask the Lord to forgive us for the times when we have allowed intimidation to keep us from doing what we know we should do.
Going forward, let’s lean more completely on the power of the Holy Spirit Who can keep us out of the intimidation trap.
“Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.”
Proverbs 29:25 NLT
Peace to you.
Jesus is coming! Get ready for Him!
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