The people of Limhi were suffering, and I understand their
response to want to fight. They really were suffering injustice at the hands of
the Lamenites. And some things are worth fighting for. The lesson for me here,
is that you pick your battles not based on the injustice but on the inspiration
and will of the Lord. If he had told them to fight, they would have had a very
different outcome. It is easy for me to get riled up, and want to fight. The
lesson I gave the Beehives and Mia Maids on forgiveness, and being meek and
turning the other cheek keeps coming back to me. I find myself failing at that
time and again, but I am grateful to recognize the failure. It’s progress to
notice and desire to change.
And then they went to fight again because their hearts were
broken for the crying widows, and then they wanted revenge. I think that was
part of the problem, they weren’t fighting to defend the widows, it was out of
anger and revenge. That’s a point I need to ask myself about when I am feeling
the need to fight.
In the end they were compelled to be humble, and just accept
the burden because they had no choice. If they had chosen that, instead of
being angry and fighting, would their hearts have been different? Would they
have been happier? They certainly wouldn’t have lost so many of their people.
What do I lose when I give into my pride instead of being humble and forgiving?
I usually get their eventually, but what do I lose in the mean time?
I am grateful of the reminder that though the Lord was slow
to hear their cries, he did hear their cries and forgive them and help them. I
also appreciate that their horrible afflictions could change their hearts
eventually, and make them ready to become converted. He really does know best
how to lead us and help us in an eternally important way.
It is interesting that King Limhi commanded the people to impart
of their substance to support the widows. When I read it, I am glad he did. But
in the Conservative talking points of this country, the government shouldn’t have
been involved and let people choose to help through personal charity. It seems like an over simplification of the issue.
I wish people would talk about things in all their real complications instead of
sound bites.
I always find it interesting that Ammon declined baptizing King
Limhi and his people. He had been sent on an important expedition, and must have
been a strong man and leader. It reminds me that we all have our different talents
and strengths. And to look for the good and appreciate it in all people, even those
not necessarily living worthily. I wonder if not being worthy for this important
job change Ammon at all? Did it humble him and make him want to repent?
I loved that the people had a desire to be baptized and wanted
to witness to God that they would follow Him. Sometimes I have a hard time feeling
the meaning attached to symbolic things. I am excited for other people when they
are moved by and can feel it.
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