Opportunity attracts opposition. When you advance to a new level, you will be opposed by a new devil. To illustrate this point, imagine a virtual video game. With any good video game, it is necessary to complete multiple levels before ultimately completing the game. Each level consists of unique battles requiring specific battle strategies. The advancement to a new level always includes a stronger enemy.
According to my sons—who have achieved a level of mastery when it comes to video games—each level is important. The goal is not to get through a level as quickly as possible. A player with that mindset will not fare very well or last in the game very long. As I watch my boys maneuver and take risks to get certain articles hidden within the confines of the course at any given level, I've observed that each of these items has a unique value, but the need for these items is not usually immediate. More often than not, they are collected for future use. What is obtained at one level may be needed at the next.
Drawing from this analogy, it is crucial that we do the small things well. Never doubt that what may seem like a small or insignificant decision or gesture now may very well open a passageway or even empower you in the future. Be assured, it isn't just our actions that move ahead with us into the future; the lessons we learn on each level journey with us as well.
As the Israelites were poised to possess their promised land, the Lord's strategy was for them to conquer the land incrementally. Moses disclosed, "The Lord your God will drive out those nations before you, little by little. You will not be able to destroy them all at once, lest the beasts of the field become too numerous for you" (Deut. 7:22).
The reason God refused to remove their enemies instantly was because they would inherit a land they couldn't manage. By removing their enemies little by little, God was allowing them to gradually grow in their capacity to rule and reign in their promised land. If God gave us everything promised all at once, we wouldn't be able to handle it.
Life is all about seasons, phases and stages. Lean into every level and season of life and extract the lessons God is teaching you. God is preparing you for what He has prepared for you. You're not just going through this season; you're growing through it.
Our goal should be to win each battle we face with the understanding that we are engaged in an ancient war between darkness and light—God versus Satan. Although we fight from a place of victory; that victory must be enforced. This is done gradually—little by little.
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