Mormon 9:31 - How to Learn from Imperfect Leaders

"31 Condemn me not because of mine imperfection, neither my father, because of his imperfection, neither them who have written before him; but rather give thanks unto God that he hath made manifest unto you our imperfections, that ye may learn to be more wise than we have been."

This poignant verse from Moroni demonstrates a humility after which all leaders and people should model themselves. It is easy for man, in his carnal nature, to point out and catalog the faults of other people, especially leaders. We mock and scorn at the mistakes, both real and fabricated, others make, yet we fail to recognize our own failures. In a church setting, some people allow themselves to be offended because of a leader’s action. Not only is this behavior churlish and immature, it also displays a certain sense of pride and lack of faith in the offended individual or group. Some profess that if a church truly was true, everything within it would be perfect, including the decisions of the leaders. This statement and all variations thereof not only show an ignorance of human nature and the Plan, but also demean the role of Christ as our only perfect example. He, alone, led a sinless life so that He could fully atone for all of us.

Another important designation to make concerns the true leadership and origin of power of the Church. Many mistakenly believe that the Bishop, Stake President or even Prophet is the ultimate authority of all happenings of the Church and its doctrine. While these individuals do play an integral role in the implementation of doctrine and Church practices, it is imperative that all members and nonmembers alike recognize that the true ultimate leader of the Church is Jesus Christ. This is such an important concept for people to understand. Once a person has a testimony of that, many issues can be easily resolved.

Moroni leaves the reader with an invitation to learn from his mistakes as well as those of his father. This shows his humility because he openly admits that he is not perfect. His example should be applied in a modern setting in which people take ownership for their actions instead of finding ways to blame others. It is important to note that Moroni does not simply berate himself, but he uses this as an opportunity to help others become better. It would be good for all of us to focus on uplifting ourselves and others too instead of being demeaning. Moroni continues to serve as an example of how we can become more Christ-like in our church membership.

Repent and Hearken

3 Nephi 7:14-15 - Actions and Consequences

“14 And it came to pass in the thirty and first year that they were divided into tribes, every man according to his family, kindred and friends; nevertheless they had come to an agreement that they would not go to war one with another; but they were not united as to their laws, and their manner of government, for they were established according to the minds of those who were their chiefs and their leaders. But they did establish very strict laws that one tribe should not trespass against another, insomuch that in some degree they had peace in the land; nevertheless, their hearts were turned from the Lord their God, and they did stone the prophets and did cast them out from among them.

15 And it came to pass that Nephi—having been visited by angels and also the voice of the Lord, therefore having seen angels, and being eye-witness, and having had power given unto him that he might know concerning the ministry of Christ, and also being eye-witness to their quick return from righteousness unto their wickedness and abominations;”

There is a distinct parallel between the occurrences found in Helaman the first part of 3 Nephi to today’s environment. Just as Christ manifested Himself to them long ago, He will similarly return to the earth in our day. As we investigate the behaviors and consequences of the people in these books, we can gain a better understanding of how God wants us to act today.

Specifically, in these verses we see a stark contrast between those who divided into tribes and Nephi. Many of the people settled into tribes because the government was corrupted. Ironically enough, it was the same evil that broke the government that now caused the people to “stone the prophets” and “cast them out from among them.” Instead of humbling themselves, they turned to anger which eventually led to their destruction. While we may not necessarily witness people actually killing the modern-day prophet, there are many examples of people attempting to slander and revile him. Essentially, they “stone” his authority and cast out his teachings from all faucets of their lives.

Conversely, Nephi shows us how believers can survive in tumultuous environments. It is significant that angels visited him to comfort. While we may not see physical beings around us, we can have faith that they are indeed there. Nephi was also given power, the Priesthood, to “know the ministry of Christ” meaning that He saw the acts that Christ performed while in the flesh. We can read about those accounts in the scriptures and by acting upon those teachings we can be strengthened by God. Ultimately, it is our choice to follow God or not. This is a decision that needs to be made as His coming is imminent. 

Helaman 5:17-19 - Another Marvelous Work and a Wonder

17 And it came to pass that they did preach with great power, insomuch that they did confound many of those dissenters who had gone over from the Nephites, insomuch that they came forth and did confess their sins and were baptized unto repentance, and immediately returned to the Nephites to endeavor to repair unto them the wrongs which they had done.

18 And it came to pass that Nephi and Lehi did preach unto the Lamanites with such great power and authority, for they had power and authority given unto them that they might speak, and they also had what they should speak given unto them—

19 Therefore they did speak unto the great astonishment of the Lamanites, to the convincing them, insomuch that there were eight thousand of the Lamanites who were in the land of Zarahemla and round about baptized unto repentance, and were convinced of the wickedness of the traditions of their fathers.

The Book of Mormon contains many accounts of conversion. Notable examples among these include the people of the Ammon as well as the family of Ishmael. However, as Mormon had written several times, he could not write everything that was contained in the records, but rather only a hundredth part. These verses provide a glimpse of the many other conversions in the Book of Mormon, whose stories are not fully shown.

There is a pattern with which missionaries teach and baptize converts. By understanding their methods, we today can be better representatives of Jesus Christ. In verse 17, we see that Nephi and Lehi, much like the previous companionship of Alma and Amulek, “did preach with great power.” This power comes from God, which is also called the Priesthood. Therefore, this shows that the missionary faucet of the Church also operates under Priesthood authority.

These verses are also interesting because it shows the reactions and baptisms of both the Nephites and Lamanites. While the Nephites, who were privileged to have the gospel already in their lives, were confounded, the Lamanites conversely were only greatly astonished. While people may have different reactions to the gospel, depending on their background, everyone can listen to the spirit if they let it into their lives. Each person needs the gospel and as they soften their hearts and act upon the words of Christ, they will become happier and more like our Heavenly Father.

This passage is brief, but it shows a significant amount of people committing to follow His gospel. The Book of Helaman itself is like our day in that the gap between the righteous and the non-believers widens. We can choose to be like these converted people or remain in wickedness. There is no gray area in this regard. Just as the coming of Christ was imminent for these people, His second coming is near for us too. A decision must be made. We need to commit. As we choose Christ over the world, we can be more assured of peace and love in this life and for eternity.

Song of Redeeming Love

Alma 33:9 - Worship Anywhere

2 And Alma said unto them: Behold, ye have said that ye could not worship your God because ye are cast out of your synagogues. But behold, I say unto you, if ye suppose that ye cannot worship God, ye do greatly err, and ye ought to search the scriptures; if ye suppose that they have taught you this, ye do not understand them.

In this exchange with the impoverished Zoramite people, Alma expounds upon his teachings about faith. In the previous chapter, he compared faith to a seed and metaphorically taught how to plant it and nurture it. However, in this chapter, the people, still somewhat confused, inquire Alma how they can develop faith if they are not allowed in the synagogue. This verse specifically shows Alma’s swift response and the rest of the chapter details what he and other prophets have said about worshipping anywhere.

Alma makes a great point wherein he directs their inquiry to the scriptures. This is an excellent pattern after which we too can follow when others ask us questions. It is important to note that Alma stresses searching the scriptures instead of passively meandering. Many people suppose many doctrines from the scriptures, but just like the Zoramite people, they “do not understand them.” To be able to adequately understand the scriptures we must cultivate the spirit in our lives such that it can reveal to us the doctrine as we read. Additionally, God has ordained prophets and other leaders who are charged with interpreting the doctrine how God would want. By following these leaders, like Alma or our modern-day prophet, we can know of a surety what we are learning is true.

To reflect on the core doctrine presented in this verse, Alma explains to the people that one does not have to be inside a synagogue to communicate with God. He later references prophets like Zenos and Zenock who both explain that God has heard them in the wilderness and other places. This doctrine is equally important for our day. Far too often, people reserve their prayers for Sunday service. However, an omnipotent God is fully capable of hearing His children wherever they are. As we keep in constant communication with Him, we can more fully feel His love and receive greater direction. To worship means to give one’s full self to another. We can do that by praying and following His commandments everywhere we go.

Alma 16:9-10 - Destruction of Ammonihah

9 And thus ended the eleventh year of the judges, the Lamanites having been driven out of the land, and the people of Ammonihah were destroyed; yea, every living soul of the Ammonihahites was destroyed, and also their great city, which they said God could not destroy, because of its greatness.

10 But behold, in one day it was left desolate; and the carcasses were mangled by dogs and wild beasts of the wilderness.

This gruesome description of the destruction of the people of Ammonihah serves as a reminder to all the consequences of ignoring the Lord’s prophets and living in wickedness. Alma and Amulek preached to many cities converting thousands, however, upon arriving in Ammonihah, they were not as kindly received. The people there followed after the manner of Nehor, meaning that they thoroughly rejected the teachings of the prophets and lifted themselves in the pride of the world. In addition to outright rejecting the teachings of Alma and Amulek, they also imprisoned them, violently beating them. Alma prophesied to them that if they did not repent, their city would be utterly destroyed. They mocked him for this, proclaiming the greatness of their city. However, as seen through these verses, Alma’s prophecy was fulfilled and not only was the city and all its inhabitants destroyed, but the stench was so bad that everyone else called the land Desolation and never sought to settle it.

There are many lessons one can ascertain from this example. The primary point to understand focuses on prophetic counsel and one’s adherence to it. The Ammonihahites were given many chances and opportunities to change and repent, however, so great was their wickedness that they actively sought to tear down any righteous person. While entire cities are not being destroyed today, one still needs to be weary of those who seek to disobey the prophet. There is a myriad of ways people show this abhorrence for the Lord’s servants. Some protest, both in person and on social media. Others cultivate that attitude in their own homes, allowing their descent to dictate their thoughts and actions. Many of these doubts begin subtlety as people get caught up in little ideas that fester until the foundation of their testimony is crumbled. To prevent this, one must remember to not turn to the world for answers, but rather to the prophet and God Himself. Seldom hard questions resolve quickly without sacrifice and effort. This search for truth and commitment for obedience is worthwhile as the prize is exaltation in the presence of our Heavenly Father. 

Blessed and Happy State

Mosiah 18:13-14 - Baptism of Helam

“13 And when he had said these words, the Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he said: Helam, I baptize thee, having authority from the Almighty God, as a testimony that ye have entered into a covenant to serve him until you are dead as to the mortal body; and may the Spirit of the Lord be poured out upon you; and may he grant unto you eternal life, through the redemption of Christ, whom he has prepared from the foundation of the world.

14 And after Alma had said these words, both Alma and Helam were buried in the water; and they arose and came forth out of the water rejoicing, being filled with the Spirit.”

A common theme found in the Book of Mormon is baptism and the importance of the associated covenants. Chapter 18 of Mosiah is especially telling of the purposes of baptism and the joy it brings to those who commit to “serve him until [they] are dead as to the mortal body.” In these two verses, one can better understand how exactly the mode of baptism occurs and what blessings arise from such action. Helam, one of the converts of Alma, is the first to be baptized in the Waters of Mormon. There are a couple notable statements that Alma says that indicates what should be said in the baptismal ordinance. First, he states his authority whereby he has power to baptize in the name of Christ. Second, it is emphasized that Helam’s baptism is an outward sign of his inner covenant, or promise, that he’ll remain faithful to God for the rest of his life. The Book of Mormon in particular is very good at pointing out the covenant nature of baptism.

          This scripture also shows the reader the blessings of baptism. Alma promises Helam that the “Spirit of the Lord be poured out upon” him thus enabling him to be closer to God and feel His love. This in turn also allows Helam to partake of the blessing of eternal life in which he may return to God “through the redemption of Christ.” Notice, that it is only through Christ that man can return to Him, however, baptism serves as an ordinance showing our commitment to follow Christ’s gospel. This entire chapter presents an intimate vignette into the joys of baptism and how, when administered correctly, brings great blessings into people’s lives. 

Mosiah 2:9 - How to Unfold the Mysteries of God

“9 And these are the words which he spake and caused to be written, saying: My brethren, all ye that have assembled yourselves together, you that can hear my words which I shall speak unto you this day; for I have not commanded you to come up hither to trifle with the words which I shall speak, but that you should hearken unto me, and open your ears that ye may hear, and your hearts that ye may understand, and your minds that the mysteries of God may be unfolded to your view.”

The context of this scripture centers around King Benjamin and his final speech to his people shortly before his death. His sermon is perhaps one of the greatest found in the Book of Mormon. He focuses his thoughts on important topics likes the Atonement, the role of Jesus Christ, and how to serve one another. While emphasis is often placed on his actual words, one can also gain significant insights when they study this verse as well.

In this verse King Benjamin pleads with the people that they “hearken unto [him], and open [their] ears.” It is interesting to note that the two verbs he chooses were hearken and open. These two words denote actions that require a certain amount of initiative from within the individual. Instead of passively hearing his words, King Benjamin invites his people, and simultaneously people today, to actively choose to engage in his sermon.

Additionally, he places equal emphasis on opening their “hearts that [they] may understand” the doctrine on a more sacred level. A common motif found throughout all scripture is the heart and the role it plays in helping a person gain a testimony of the gospel. To actively listen with the heart, the individual needs to invoke the power of the Holy Ghost so that the truths may be interpreted spiritually. The process whereby this occurs is not always easy, however, it proves to be the most effective method for the conversion of the soul. Spiritual learning transcends all physical forms and allows the individual to more deeply understand God. Even later, King Benjamin states that by opening one’s ears and heart, “the mysteries of God may be unfolded to [one’s] view.” These great mysteries deal with the core doctrine of Christ and the personal application of it to one’s self. As people strive to better understand the Plan of God for all humanity by using the spirit, they will ultimately be able to move forward with faith knowing how they personally fit within that Plan. 

For He Knoweth All Things

2 Nephi 29:11-12 - Unrevealed Scripture Yet to Come

“11 For I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the books which shall be written I will judge the world, every man according to their works, according to that which is written.

12 For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the Nephites and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the other tribes of the house of Israel, which I have led away, and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it.”

This scripture has always been an intriguing rebuttal to those who argue that the Bible is the only scripture one needs. As referenced many times within the Bible itself, God is infinite and His works and glory cannot be fully understood by man. Based upon that knowledge of the characteristics of God, one cannot then arbitrarily limit His words in scripture. As is stated in verse 11, God has commanded not just the Jews or even the Nephites to transcribe their spiritual history and revelations, but all men everywhere. This leads one to understand that there is even more scripture that has yet to be revealed.

One reads in 3 Nephi an account of Christ Himself proclaiming that he has “other sheep, which are not of this [the Americas] land, neither of the land of Jerusalem.” Later, it is revealed that not only do these other sheep exist, but that Christ has “received a commandment of the Father that [He] shall go unto them, and that they shall hear [His] voice” showing once again God’s infinite love for all His children. It can be inferred through this passage that other scriptures besides the Book of Mormon and the Bible do exist and that someday all will be revealed. The Book of Mormon is not only another testament of Jesus Christ, but also of God’s presence in the lives of all people.  

2 Nephi 5:10,16,26-27 - Lived After the Manner of Happiness

“10 And we did observe to keep the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments of the Lord in all things, according to the law of Moses.

16 And I, Nephi, did build a temple; and I did construct it after the manner of the temple of Solomon save it were not built of so many precious things; for they were not to be found upon the land, wherefore, it could not be built like unto Solomon’s temple. But the manner of the construction was like unto the temple of Solomon; and the workmanship thereof was exceedingly fine.

26 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did consecrate Jacob and Joseph, that they should be priests and teachers over the land of my people.

27 And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness.”

        In 2 Nephi chapter 5, the reader sees the split of Lehi’s family and the formation of the famous dichotomy of the Nephites and the Lamanities. Nephi gives us a brief history of some of the actions his people took once they were separated. In the culmination of these righteous actions Nephi then declares that his family “lived after the manner of happiness.” This search for happiness is easily one of the most sought-after states of being that humans desire. Upon a closer inspection of this chapter, we can see what led Nephi and his people to become happy.

       In verse 10, Nephi explains that his family “did observe to keep the judgments and the statutes and the commandments of the Lord in all things.” Thus, we see that if we follow God’s commands in all faucets of our lives, we, too, can be happier and “prosper exceedingly” like Nephi’s people did. Of course, one’s own dedication to obedience does not necessarily negate all trials and hardships in life. However, we have been given the promise that as we strive to become more like God and accept His plan for us, everything ultimately will work out.

       Another principle of happiness we observe is found in verse 16 where Nephi “did build a temple…after the manner of the temple of Solomon.” Even though they had been recently relocated to a new place, Nephi’s people demonstrated their love of God by immediately building a new temple where they can worship. This shows that temple worship allows one to find more joy in their life. In connecting that to the modern day, the Saints today should strive to include visits to the temple in their routines.

       The last principle of happiness creation is found in verse 26 where we see that Nephi “did consecrate Jacob and Joseph…[to] be priests and teachers.” It is clear here that the Priesthood and the ordination of it is important. Through the blessings of the Priesthood power, Nephi and his people felt closer to God and made sacred covenants.

       We see that through commandment keeping, temple building, and Priesthood power, one can attain happiness in this life. As we strive to follow Nephi and his example we, too, can develop a strong relationship with God.

Isles of the Sea

Alma 12:3-4 - Becoming Like God

"3 Now, we see that the man had become as God, knowing good and evil; and lest he should put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat and live forever, the Lord God placed cherubim and the flaming sword, that he should not partake of the fruit—

4 And thus we see, that there was a time granted unto man to repent, yea, a probationary time, a time to repent and serve God."

This chapter is commonly known to expound the doctrine of the fall and moral agency. These two verses, however, are particularly intriguing for their ideas concerning man becoming like God. Often, when one reads about the purpose of the fall and the atonement, it is placed in the context of how man can approach the throne of God once more and enter into His presence. While that doctrine is important for the individual to understand and appreciate, the sister doctrine of man becoming like God is equally pertinent for man to embrace. In verse three, it is revealed that the ability to choose, or moral agency, is a God-like trait. That “man had become as God” in that they knew good and evil shows the integral part agency plays in human life. Sometimes, man is tempted to curse God because of the choices they must make or because of the effect of others’ choices upon them. But when viewed under the gospel lens, the power behind that ability to choose should cause each person to be still and reflect upon their own divine nature.

However, this agency man has been bestowed does not immediately quality them for Godship. As eloquently stated in verse 4, man is admonished to use their agency to “repent and serve God,” indicating the path to becoming like the Father partially dependent upon one’s application of gospel principles during their “probationary time” on Earth. It is notable to point out that this doctrine of repentance and servitude of God was established ever since man was, beginning with Adam, the patriarch of the human race, and will be in effect even into the millennial reign of the Savior.

As one follows this heavenly counsel, they can be assured of the divine power of the Redeemer’s atonement, whose cleansing power eradicates even the smallest of sins of the penitent and lowly in heart. Agency enables one to become as God and with that knowledge one can be more faithful in this life. As man prepares to meet God, they also prepare to take upon the mantle of Godship themselves.

1 Nephi 19:11-12 - The Isles of the Sea

“11 For thus spake the prophet: The Lord God surely shall visit all the house of Israel at that day, some with his voice, because of their righteousness, unto their great joy and salvation, and others with the thunderings and the lightnings of his power, by tempest, by fire, and by smoke, and vapor of darkness, and by the opening of the earth, and by mountains which shall be carried up.

12 And all these things must surely come, saith the prophet Zenos. And the rocks of the earth must rend; and because of the groanings of the earth, many of the kings of the isles of the sea shall be wrought upon by the Spirit of God, to exclaim: The God of nature suffers.”

Nephi prophesies about the birth and death of the Savior. In this revelation given unto him from the Lord, Nephi also receives the words of Zenos, a lost prophet whose teachings are preserved only through the Book of Mormon record. These two verses more specially describe the destruction of the land when Christ was put to death. It is interesting to note the strong physical reaction the earth exhibits. In a way, the earth is personified and “groans” because of the loss of its Savior. From other prophecies, we know that ultimately the earth itself will “receive its paradisaical glory” and become celestialized much like man who, through his obedience and the Atonement of Christ, can too be exalted.

The second verse provides another interesting insight. It references the “kings of the isles of sea” who will witness this great destruction. In 2 Nephi 10:20, Jacob teaches the Nephite people that though they “have been driven out of the land of [their] inheritance…the Lord has made the sea [their] path, and [they] are upon an isle of the sea.” It is probable that especially during the days of Nephi and Jacob, the people considered their place of living an isle of the sea because of its surrounding geography and tropical environment. However, it is important to recognize that this verse also suggests that there are other isles of the sea as well. According to the Book of Mormon Student Study Guide put out by the church, it explains that Hagoth (see Alma 63) and his people who sailed away settled the pacific islands. These other isles also were privy to witness the signs of the Savior’s death. Additional analysis about the origins of the Polynesian people can be found from Dr. Parsons, a religious professor at BYU (see link below).

Ultimately, these verses show not only that the destruction would come, but also that it would carry a greater spiritual significance. Christ is the God of this world. As Zenos and Nephi prophesied, the kings, through the spirit, would understand suffering of Christ. In connecting that to our day today, each person should strive to not only comprehend the Savior’s pain, but also why He had to suffer at all. I personally have a testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It happened and through His death, we all may live again. I think that’s a beautiful dichotomy. Though we will have destruction in our own lives, if we repent and follow the words of the Lord, we can overcome the darkness and receive that “great joy and salvation.”

https://rsc.byu.edu/archived/book-mormon-alma-testimony-word/15-hagoth-and-polynesians-0

In the Arms of His Love

2 Nephi 29:8 - God's Love and the Book of Mormon

"Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also."

To those who deny the validity of the Book of Mormon also deny and limit the extent of God’s love. In fact, this record is in itself primary evidence that God continues to reach out to all of His children. Indeed these two witnesses strengthen one another and should be viewed in a latitudinal plane rather than in a fault seeking light.

Trust in the Lord

Jacob 2:35 - The Law of Chastity

"Behold, ye have done greater iniquities than the Lamanites, our brethren. Ye have broken the hearts of your tender wives, and lost the confidence of your children, because of your bad examples before them; and the sobbings of their hearts ascend up to God against you. And because of the strictness of the word of God, which cometh down against you, many hearts died, pierced with deep wounds."

Jacob outlines the dire consequences of breaking the law of chastity. Compared to the world’s standards, these pleasure indulgences are considered desirable. However, as noted in this account, the hearts of the loved ones incur great damage. The consequences of those sins are not limited to a personal scope but extend to familial spheres as well.

2 Nephi 9:14 - Robes of Righteousness

"Wherefore, we shall have a perfect knowledge of all our guilt, and our uncleanness, and our nakedness; and the righteous shall have a perfect knowledge of their enjoyment, and their righteousness, being clothed with purity, yea, even with the robe of righteousness."

It is professed that at Judgement Day we will have "a perfect knowledge of all our guilt" and nakedness before God. This sensation is familiar to Adam and Eve's experience wherein they sought to hide their nakedness before the Lord because they felt ashamed. Just as God made them clothes, so too shall the righteous be "clothed with purity even with the robe of righteousness."

I Know that He Loveth His Children

Five Keys to Happiness

As given by a professor at Brigham Young University:

1. Exercise

2. Meditate

3. Keep a journal of gratitude

4. Keep a journal of positivity

5. Seek out acts of kindness

1 Nephi 15:11 - How to Find Truth

"Do ye not remember the things which the Lord hath said?—If ye will not harden your hearts, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you."

Nephi highlights an important gospel formula in which one may ascertain truth. The process to which each person must adhere is remarkably simple to visualize, however, sometimes dubious in practice. Insomuch that one asks with a willing heart, one shall receive. Therefore one sees that inquiring of the Lord is an integral part of satiating the appetite for truth and knowledge. 

Hope Through Atonement of Christ

1 Nephi 2:12 - Why murmur?

"And thus Laman and Lemuel, being the eldest, did murmur against their father. And they did murmur because they knew not the dealings of that God who had created them."

Murmuring is derived from an ignorance of "God's dealings" with His children. This is true in that as one better understands the Atonement and the Plan so too does one's desire to follow it increase. The irony of the naiveness displayed by Nephi's brothers in relation to their maker shows how it is ultimately within each person whether he or she will pursue that divine paternal relationship.

Hands of God

3 Nephi 26:9 - Discover Greater Things

"And when they shall have received this, which is expedient that they should have first, to try their faith, and if it shall so be that they shall believe these things then shall the greater things be made manifest unto them."

Mormon gave only a fraction of Christ's teachings to the Gentiles. As one shows their faith, those teachings become clearer. There are, however, many more mysterious of God that can be discovered. The "greater things" are not learned immediately but God knows when we are adequately prepared. It's important to note though, God has already revealed everything one needs to obtain salvation and eternal life.

Come Unto Chirst

Ether 2: 14-15 - Significance of Not Praying

" 14 And it came to pass at the end of four years that the Lord came again unto the brother of Jared, and stood in a cloud and talked with him. And for the space of three hours did the Lord talk with the brother of Jared, and chastened him because he remembered not to call upon the name of the Lord.

 15 And the brother of Jared repented of the evil which he had done, and did call upon the name of the Lord for his brethren who were with him. And the Lord said unto him: I will forgive thee and thy brethren of their sins; but thou shalt not sin any more, for ye shall remember that my Spirit will not always strive with man; wherefore, if ye will sin until ye are fully ripe ye shall be cut off from the presence of the Lord. And these are my thoughts upon the land which I shall give you for your inheritance; for it shall be a land choice above all other lands."

One often may foolishly misperceive that to not pray is a minor mistake that is not as erroneous as other possible sins. However, through the Brother of Jared's experience, we see that Mormon describes this sin as "evil" and was significance enough for the Lord to chastise him for the space of three hours. As we pray, we receive enhanced direction and guidance from the Holy Spirit. This communication should be one's highest priority and not carelessly forsaken.  

Things Will Work Out

Helaman 11:19 - Attain the Testimony of a Prophet

"19 And behold, Lehi, his brother, was not a whit behind him as to things pertaining to righteousness."

It is described that Lehi, "was not one whit behind" Nephi and was equally righteous. As one considers the spiritual state of esteemed leaders in the Church, they must also regard themselves as possessing an equal potential in "things pertaining to righteousness." One does not need to lag from an ever constant behind, but rather exercise personal autonomy and build a mighty testimony.

Helaman 10:16 - How to Escape Danger

"16 But behold, the power of God was with him, and they could not take him to cast him into prison, for he was taken by the Spirit and conveyed away out of the midst of them."

Through the power of the spirit, Nephi is able to effectively navigate himself out of destructive situations. Christ, too, in His earthly ministry experienced similar circumstances wherein evil men wanted to seize upon Him, however, He was able to pass from their midst without their knowledge. Thus one sees how the spirit serves to help one evade danger and teach more powerfully. Both warned sufficiently to the people about repentance, therefore, it was acceptable to let them escape. 

A Little Better

Helaman 10:12 - What is your commitment to God?

"12 And behold, now it came to pass that when the Lord had spoken these words unto Nephi, he did stop and did not go unto his own house, but did return unto the multitudes who were scattered about upon the face of the land, and began to declare unto them the word of the Lord which had been spoken unto him, concerning their destruction if they did not repent."

Nephi clearly shows how our commitment to God and His commandments should be displayed in our actions. Instead of returning to a comfortable home, devoid of grief or pain, Nephi immediately follows his revelation without question, despite recent spiritual and physical toil. Similarly, one must be willing to sacrifice what they desire in order to obtain a higher blessing later.

Glory of God

Helaman 5:41 -Dispell the Clouds of Darkness

" 41 And Aminadab said unto them: You must repent, and cry unto the voice, even until ye shall have faith in Christ, who was taught unto you by Alma, and Amulek, and Zeezrom; and when ye shall do this, the cloud of darkness shall be removed from overshadowing you."

If one desires to "dispell the clouds of darkness" from their lives, they must apply the simple principles of the gospel in their actions until they gain a personal conviction of it. Through sincere prayer and continued repentance, a recollection of previous teachings and a renewed faith in Christ will emerge and be powerfully sufficent to the dispersion of any evil force. 

Helaman 5:29-33 - A Cry from the Darkness

"29 And it came to pass that there came a voice as if it were above the cloud of darkness, saying: Repent ye, repent ye, and seek no more to destroy my servants whom I have sent unto you to declare good tidings.

 30 And it came to pass when they heard this voice, and beheld that it was not a voice of thunder, neither was it a voice of a great tumultuous noise, but behold, it was a still voice of perfect mildness, as if it had been a whisper, and it did pierce even to the very soul—

 31 And notwithstanding the mildness of the voice, behold the earth shook exceedingly, and the walls of the prison trembled again, as if it were about to tumble to the earth; and behold the cloud of darkness, which had overshadowed them, did not disperse—

 32 And behold the voice came again, saying: Repent ye, repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand; and seek no more to destroy my servants. And it came to pass that the earth shook again, and the walls trembled.

 33 And also again the third time the voice came, and did speak unto them marvelous words which cannot be uttered by man; and the walls did tremble again, and the earth shook as if it were about to divide asunder."

This passage reveals a sacred experience in which the Holy Ghost speaks to an unrepentant people from a cloud of darkness, which had previously decended upon them. It could be noted how this experience is similar to a later account in 3 Nephi where again, a still, small voice calls to the people three times to repent in a circumstance where darkness reigns.