"After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, “Surely you are one of them, for your accent gives you away.” Then he began to call down curses on himself and he swore to them, “I don’t know the man!” Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly."  -- Matthew 26:73-75

The stories of prisoners of war can be most distressful. The mistreatment and humiliation can be overwhelming for the strongest soldier. As time passes some are unable to hold on and they eventually betray their allegiance to home and country. Fear can be an overpowering influence.

Peter was filled with fear. The events of the previous hours included a determined promise that now concluded in devastating failure. The will to prevail gave way to a humiliating betrayal. Peter crumbled under the pressure of opposition and the threat of death. "I don't know the man!"... Fear can be an overpowering influence.

In the battle for spiritual victory, you will face overwhelming opposition. There will be moments when the pressure will be unbearable. Fear will fill your heart and tempt you to deny the Lord in one way another. But remember the words of an older and wiser Peter in 1 Peter 5:9, 11 "standing firm in the faith" the Lord will "make you strong, firm and steadfast." Faith can be an overpowering influence.