Countless Christians battle intimidation, which is camouflaged and subtle. Many feel the effects—depression, confusion, lack of faith—without knowing its root. Bevere guides readers below the surface to see the roots of intimidation. Readers will understand why it is hard to say no, why the fear confrontation and avoid conflict, and why they focus on pleasing others. Readers will learn to identify intimidation and know how to break its hold. Bevere explains how the fear of God keeps us from a life of ungodliness and produces confidence and boldness. Bevere advises, “Walk in your own God-given authority, or someone else will take it from you and use it against you.”
“On and on these thoughts assaulted my mind. My fears had begun to center on one thought: What is going to happen to me? This is how intimidation will change your focus. The reason: The root of intimidation is fear, and fear causes people to focus on themselves. Perfect love casts out fear because love puts the focus on God and others and denies itself (1 John 4:18).” (Page 5)
“He said, ‘Son, if you mess up in this position, it can be easily corrected because you’re dealing with natural things. But when I place you in a ministry position, you are over people and lives are at stake.’” (Pages 18–19)
“The root of fear and intimidation is the love of self. Perfect love casts out fear and gives us boldness. Boldness born of love breaks the grip of intimidation. Imperfect love, or self-love opens the door to intimidation.” (Page 105)
“‘John, you are intimidated by those people on the platform behind you. You’ve been knocked out of your position of authority, and the gift of God in you has been quenched.’” (Page 7)
“The fact that He was human gave Him the legal right to regain what was lost. Because He was the Son of God He was free from the lordship the enemy had acquired over man.” (Page 14)