What Happens When We Feel Intimidated?
Intimidation shrouds the truth.
It hides what is real. What is concrete.
Another emotion that often surfaces when our lives don’t seem to go the way we imagine is intimidation. It appears when we’re in the middle of a conversation. Or as we’re looking at the facial expression or body language of another person. Or from the intrusion of an unexpected situation we can’t ignore. Panic often closely follows Intimidation. Why? Because others can appear to know more. Seem better prepared. More at ease. Successful. Rich. Well-liked. In charge. Or the unexpected situation can seem to be getting the better of us.
The thing is, intimidation is cruel. It leaves us feeling reduced. Threatened. Discouraged. Fearful. Standing still from the panic rising within us.
But this is not the truth. And this is the thing about intimidation, it shrouds the truth. Hides what is real. What is concrete.
What’s currently causing intimidation and panic to rise within you? Is it a withering relationship at work or at home? Or the hope of a lasting, committed relationship filled with love, respect, laughter, and mutual support that seems out of reach? Or is it a situation that feels overwhelming, like a new job or a new venture?
As many of you know, this year, I married the love of my life. We began what we thought was life together in England. However, shortly after our honeymoon, out of the blue, a situation surfaced that began to intimidate us. I’d love to tell you that we didn’t succumb to panic. But, periodically one of us did. And yet, even in the difficult days, we continually sensed God inviting us away from panic and intimidation, and, instead, to pace with Him. One day at a time . . . in trust and openness, unreservedly expressing our real feelings out loud to Him and each other.
How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings. You feed them from the abundance of your own house, letting them drink from your river of delights. For you are the fountain of life, the light by which we see (Psalm 36:7-9, NTL).
The thing is, living with others in the stress of every day circumstances might include feeling intimidated. If this sounds like you, then here’s something my husband and I did when our situation seemed out of control and dark. Maybe you’ll find it helpful too.
Reflective Response: Stand up. Literally. Stand up and stamp your feet, and say, “Jesus, light of the world, I will NOT be intimidated! Help me not to panic. I believe You are with me. You know my circumstances. Thank You that I can trust You today. I look to You. Amen.”
