While each entry in the Final Fantasy series has its’ own unique twist, Final Fantasy XII stands out as the first title in the mainline series to fully do away with “random battles”… something the series is pretty well known for. Being able to see the dangers we were about to face and make a choice to either avoid them or engage them was certainly convenient, but if we wanted to grow our skills and complete our missions these battles still had to be fought. The only difference was that we were now able to anticipate and prepare for these encounters in advance… these events were no longer happening TO us, they were occurring with our acceptance of both their inevitability as well as their importance to the rest of our story.

In life, the challenges we face and the attacks we endure often feel like “random battles” that pop up for no apparent reason other than to slow down our progress or cause us pain… and if we could see them coming in advance, we’d most likely avoid them altogether. While these “pop-up” battles are unwanted, our enemy’s attacks serve a critical purpose in building our character and pressing us forward in ways we wouldn’t have chosen, but couldn’t achieve otherwise. Rather than resent these trials or question God on why He is permitting them to occur, let’s embrace their presence with joy… it means we are growing.

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. James 1:2-3

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. John 16:33

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