Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A… that simple series of inputs known as the “Konami Code” was a game-changer that I used many times to finally conquer the games that I was stuck on. But this “cheat code” that made my path easier was hiding a secret… punching it in didn’t actually help me become better at any of these games. Instead, I learned some magic button presses that promised all of the gain without any of the pain, allowing me to bypass the process that was designed to guide me along a path that would truly earn the ending I was seeking. While these shortcuts made my life easier, they cheated me out of developing the skills that future titles would require… or more accurately, by using them I cheated myself.

The presence of the Lord in our lives doesn’t mean that our prayers are a magical “cheat code” to bypass our challenges in life… it just means we’ll never have to go through them in our own strength or face them alone. These trials are the way we grow in our faith and build our character, gaining valuable skills that our future battles will require. Let’s bring our every need to the Father in prayer, knowing that if He chooses to guide us through these struggles instead of simply bypassing them, it is for a good reason… one He can’t allow us to skip.

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4:12-13

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4

And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5

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