Principal Thoughts: I like having zero points in the Indiana Jones game because it reminds me that I get my “do overs” from God.

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Video games don’t have much of a hold on me.  Some games destroy my gaming spirit right away because I can’t achieve the level before my lives get used up.  I get frustrated and give up playing the game.  One princess game likes to use the three strikes you’re your out rule.  I don’t think I have ever passed level one in that game!  However that was before the Indiana Jones game took up residence in our house.  I can run through all my treasure points stored up but always get a new Indiana Jones to try again.  Matter of fact I have achieved levels with zero points to show for my effort.  Others in my household have passed levels and stored up points but when the Wii gets shut off we all have passed the levels.

I can relate to the adventure game because it grants me time to figure out a level.  Each time I take another run at getting past a tricky area I learn something.  Perhaps it’s what to do or maybe what not to do but either way there is a lot of learning involved.  That’s the way I face the challenges that come my way.  Sometimes I don’t learn enough the first time through a situation but I keep trying so that the next time I can face it.  I like having zero points in the Indiana Jones game because it reminds me that I get my “do overs” from God.  I don’t have to have any points stored up with God.  He simply renews me and I am ready for action again.

I will also admit that I haven’t passed a level on my own.  I have had to seek outside council on how to get through some levels because I don’t know the order or the secret place.  Letting go and letting someone help you is also part of learning.  God is my ultimate and graciously He provides me with real life people to help in areas.  I have to learn when to give over the controls.  Too many times in my Indy game I want my 15 year old to tell me how to do it but am reluctant to hand over the joy stick.  I cringe when I think about times I have done that in ministry and how foolish I must have looked.

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 While the novelty of the game is still fresh I think of that Isaiah verse as I reach for the controller.  It reminds me that I don’t need all the extra treasure points to renew my strength.  My little Indy figure keeps running and doesn’t grow weary.  Of course I will probably make sure a certain fifteen year old is near by to help guide me through a tough situation!