The blessing that came to the sons of Mosiah because of
searching the scriptures and much prayer and fasting:
- Waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth (firm testimony)
- Sound understanding (know things as they really are, wise)
- Spirit of prophecy (testimony of Jesus (Rev. 19:10) and confirmation of choices and inspiration for responsibilities)
- The spirit of revelation (communication from God through the Spirit)
- Taught with the power and authority from God
I appreciate the flash back method of talking about the sons
of Mosiah here. Their journey was hard, and they suffered many things, and also
had amazing stories to tell. But starting with the end puts all the rest in the
perspective of the result—who they had become and why it had all been worth it.
It changes the way you think about what is coming. I think that is an important
principle to remember for effective teaching.
It must have taken incredible fortitude and faith for the sons
of Mosiah to leave when there was so much pressure for them to stay and inherit
the kingdom, from their father and from all the people. It would be really easy
to rationalize and succumb under that kind of pressure. It reminds me of what I
realized about Lehi and remembered as I was re-reading this journal on Tuesday—great
revelation comes to those who are ready and willing to act on it.
I just realized that when the Lamenites just came to attack the
people the sons of Mosiah were still on their mission there. I want to remember
that to see what was happening with them at that time.
As I read about them fasting and praying in the wilderness on
their way there, that they might be instruments in the hand of the Lord, I feel
like I need to do that more. At first I thought just in my calling as a Beehive
Advisor, but then almost immediately came the thought that my mission in my home,
teaching the gospel to my children was even more important, and that I need to be
better about focusing on that part of what I am doing as a mother, and praying more
for inspiration and guidance about that. Partly because I need the help, and partly
because praying constantly about it helps me remember that is what I am doing really.
And when the Lord tells them the way to teach is to be patient and long-suffering in affliction, to set
a good example for them, I know He is also talking to me. I felt reminded of
that this morning when I got frustrated with Isaiah trying to figure out the bike
lock, or how impatient I felt all morning, really. I felt the Spirit reminding me
this was not the Lord’s way. And I feel reminded of it again now. In fact, I am
amazed at how timely this instruction was for me—a tender mercy of the Lord!
I just realized how long 14 years is. It’s longer than Omar and
I have been married, longer than I have ever lived in a house, longer than anyone
is even in school as a child. They committed a huge amount of time to their mission
to the Lamenites. No wonder Alma was surprised to see them! They had been gone for
a long time!
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