Most of us have heard or may have experienced intimidation. 

If we look at the definition, intimidation means “to make timid or fearful.” Intimidation is more than just being about fear by reason of threats. 

We, within our own minds, can succumb to intimidation. 

Over this past week, I did. I found that intimidation can be self-inflicted.

Being a lover of the sport of golf, I had the opportunity to play with a group of gentlemen that I was acquainted with. 

As I step into the first tee box. I felt nervous and fearful. 

Did I happen to mention that these gentlemen were all over the age of 70? 

Not wanting to look bad. On my first swing, I did just that. On each of the next five holes, I could not get my game together. 

My mind began to deceive me as to what I thought these gentlemen were thinking. Timid and fearful, I created and cultivated intimidation. 

Once the manifestation of intimidation took hold, my confidence lost confidence. 

I knew I could play better but I just couldn’t shake it. 

However, by the time we were ready to play the back nine, I realized that this intimidation is self-inflicted and it is self-cured. 

There was no reason for me to apply pressure on myself. There was no money involved. It was not a tournament. Just gentlemen enjoying a sport they all love. 

On the 10th tee box, my faith in myself became stronger than the fear of myself and the power and influence of intimidation was weakening. 

Needless to say, I shot 13 strokes better on the back than I did on the front. Feeling good about myself after 18 holes. We removed our caps shook hands and thanked each other for the opportunity. 

It was at this time that all four gentlemen looked at me and expressed, “We knew the game was in you and once you settled into yourself it would come out.” 

They let me know they had all been there and understood what I was battling. 

At 55, I battled against self-inflicted intimidation. 

What of our children? What about you? Promoting self-confidence is the vaccine to the virus of self-inflicted intimidation. Let’s cultivate the power of faith that overcomes the paralysis of fear. 

The journey may seem long, but it’s shortened with every step we take. 

Step out on faith and you’ll leave fear behind.

 

Demetrius Moffett is Senior Pastor of Orange Church of God, 1911 North 16th Street in Orange.