Trouble Setting up Skill,spells and base stats.

I'm trying to make a game similar to Final Fantasy 1 (Max HP 999 unlike other 9999 Games.) and well the spells and skill always seem to come out to weak. or way too powerful. I want a Spells that get stronger as you do. I know thats what the Variance tabs are for but they don't seem to do much. And I'm trying to make ability's for a monk like fighter. but his skills always end up just as strong as his regular attack. I dunno if i described this very good. But i hope someone can help.