Mosiah 23 is a special chapter. It sows the seeds of great doctrine that are taught in the next 2 books in the Book of Mormon. Verses 9 - 11 anticipate the great chapters of Alma 26 and 29. We learn about godly government on earth, the importance of priesthood authority, and why bad things happen to good people.
I sometimes forget, though, that there are human beings, children of God, who act out this gospel smorgasbord. While I rejoice in the hard truths taught in this chapter, they lived them. One verse in particular stands out to me.
Alma's people in the land of Helam are trying very hard to establish a godly land. They follow the precepts of the gospel, work hard, choose good leaders, and put their faith in their Heavenly Father. And then the Lamanites come as part of the Father's perfection process.
Although they are initially "much frightened," Alma's exhortation focuses their concerns. "Therefore they hushed their fears, and began to cry unto the Lord that he would soften the hearts of the Lamanites" (v. 28).
What greater act of faith is there than this? While seeing a dangerous enemy march quickly toward you, you swallow your fear and turn to the Lord. There is no guarantee that you will live, or that your loved ones will make it through. But rather than waste your breath crying out in desperation, you fall to your knees and pray for guidance and strength.
The people of Alma are an example to me in many ways, but perhaps this above all. When the going gets tough, they shut their mouths and start to pray.
I sometimes forget, though, that there are human beings, children of God, who act out this gospel smorgasbord. While I rejoice in the hard truths taught in this chapter, they lived them. One verse in particular stands out to me.
Alma's people in the land of Helam are trying very hard to establish a godly land. They follow the precepts of the gospel, work hard, choose good leaders, and put their faith in their Heavenly Father. And then the Lamanites come as part of the Father's perfection process.
Although they are initially "much frightened," Alma's exhortation focuses their concerns. "Therefore they hushed their fears, and began to cry unto the Lord that he would soften the hearts of the Lamanites" (v. 28).
What greater act of faith is there than this? While seeing a dangerous enemy march quickly toward you, you swallow your fear and turn to the Lord. There is no guarantee that you will live, or that your loved ones will make it through. But rather than waste your breath crying out in desperation, you fall to your knees and pray for guidance and strength.
The people of Alma are an example to me in many ways, but perhaps this above all. When the going gets tough, they shut their mouths and start to pray.