Getting lost in a massive JRPG like Xenoblade Chronicles X can be overwhelming, especially when you skip the tutorial and find yourself in battles you’re not ready for. But what if that same mistake is why so many Christians feel like they’re failing in their faith? In this episode of Geek Devotions, Dallas shares a hard-earned lesson from gaming that just might explain why burnout, frustration, and spiritual confusion are more common than you think.

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I recently dove into Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition on the Nintendo Switch. It’s everything I was hoping for in a sci-fi RPG—open world, expansive systems, and quirky side quests (like helping a lady fix her cappuccino machine). But somewhere between chasing car parts and dodging killer plants, I realized something: I was lost, confused, and deeply frustrated.

Why? Because I skipped the tutorial.

Instead of learning the basics, I ran straight into the open world, eager to do “the real stuff.” But without proper understanding, I found myself in battles I couldn’t win and systems I didn’t understand. I almost quit the game altogether… until I circled back and played the tutorial mission. Suddenly, things made sense. The mechanics clicked. The frustration faded. I could finally play with clarity and confidence.

And it hit me: this is how many people approach their walk with Jesus.

The Spiritual Trap of Skipping the Basics

When someone becomes a Christian, it’s exciting. There’s zeal. Passion. A desire to do something meaningful. But in our rush to serve, evangelize, or understand every theological nuance, we sometimes skip learning the essentials—prayer, reading the Word, community, and accountability; the basics of discipleship.

The result? We may jump into battles we’re not ready for. We may get overwhelmed by spiritual struggles or complex issues. Some burn out, and sadly, some leave their faith altogether.

In Hebrews 5:12, the writer puts it like this:

“Though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food.” (ESV)

This isn’t a rebuke meant to shame. It’s an honest assessment. Sometimes, we’ve just missed—or never received—the foundational lessons. We’ve skipped the spiritual tutorial, and it’s time to go back.

Returning to the Fundamentals

Whether you’re a new believer or have been walking with God for a while, it’s never too late to revisit the basics. Maybe you’ve felt like your faith is “stuck,” or you’ve found yourself in a situation you weren’t ready for. That’s okay. Recognizing the gap is the first step toward growth.

If you’re new in your faith, seek out a mentor. Find someone mature in their walk with Jesus who can teach you how to read Scripture, pray, and walk daily in faith.

If you’ve been in the faith for years, maybe it’s time to step up. Be the experienced player who helps the new ones. Disciple someone. Walk alongside them. Be patient. Be present.

Just like in gaming, the best players are the ones who help others enjoy the journey.