Anchored 33: Who is Your Influence Group?

Peter’s story reminds us how fragile confidence can be when it’s placed in ourselves instead of in Christ. Though Peter boldly declared his loyalty, his self-assurance was no match for fear. When surrounded by the wrong crowd and the heat of pressure rose, he denied the very One he swore to follow. Jesus knew Peter would fall—but He also knew Peter would rise again. “When you have turned again,” Jesus said, “strengthen your brothers.” God often allows our failures to sift us, shaking off pride and self-reliance so our faith can rest firmly in Him. True confidence is not built on our strength, but on Christ’s steadfast grace. We all have influence groups—people and environments that shape our choices. The question is: do they draw us closer to Jesus or subtly pull us away? When we humbly depend on Christ, surround ourselves with godly influence, and allow failure to become formation, we find restoration—and the strength to help others do the same.