Level Up

Video games were never the focus of our son’s down time. Hunting, fishing and baseball dominated his hours out of the classroom. My great nephew, however, was the complete opposite. He spent the bulk of his time plugged into the world of cyber gaming. Via the internet, he joined gaming pods where he socialized, competed and honed his skills. He often exclaimed, “I’ve made it to a new level!” But what did that mean? I’ve come to understand that “a new level” means you have championed the beginner levels of the game and worked your way deeper into the cyber format where your knowledge and skills are challenged with new obstacles. In other words, he was digging himself deeper and deeper into his knowledge of the game. His gaming pod was a bonus as they were always available to offer insight and encouragement as he battled. In some instances, the even joined forces to battle together. 

Have you ever asked yourself, “What is going to happen next?” Just like a video game battle, life tosses one obstacle after another our way. And, just as we manage to champion them, life kicks it up a notch and we find ourselves ushered into virgin territory filled with new challenge. But this is real life and not a game. How do we level up? Time spent socializing with our brothers and sisters in Christ, studying the Bible, serving God and gathering for worship help us form the skills required to make our way deeper into our faith. That, in turn, arms us for battle with the challenges we encounter as we live our daily lives. I’m so glad God is forefront in my life pod!

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” 2 Peter 3:18

“The Lord shall go forth like a mighty man; He shall stir up His zeal like a man of war. He shall cry out, yes, shout aloud; He shall prevail against His enemies.” Isaiah 42:13