There are many things in life for which we could be fearful. Crime, violence, disease, terrorism, heights, flying in airplanes, public speaking, spiders and snakes! While you might have some real struggles in overcoming your fear of snakes or heights, God is prepared to assist you in freeing yourself from being intimidated by people.
Many people habitually come on strong toward others. They huff and they bluff and they threaten and make loud, menacing pronouncements that are designed to intimidate those who are listening. Yet as with everything, God’s people quietly take what others say to God for His evaluation. Not only is God unimpressed with peoples’ threats; He actually laughs at them (Psalm 2:4).
Tragically, much of God’s work on earth is hindered because His people are afraid to obey what He told them. People excuse their lack of witnessing to others or public testimony for Christ because they feel uncomfortable doing so. Some refuse to take a stand for righteousness out of inordinate concern for how others will respond. Others refuse to obey God’s leading for fear of opposition or misunderstanding. As a result, God’s people allow their fears to prevent them from obeying God and experiencing spiritual victory.
When we focus on what people are saying, we can easily become intimidated. When, however, we place the threat of others in light of God’s powerful presence, we clearly see that we have nothing to fear.