9 That thou mayest say to the prisoners: Go forth; to them that sit in darkness: Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places.
10 They shall not hunger nor thirst, neither shall the heat nor the sun smite them; for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.
How many people are prisoners of addictions or of other constraints (such as poverty, lack of education, or poor health) that leave them with little autonomy, growth, and fulfillment? How many people are figuratively “sitting in darkness,” afraid to show their true selves for fear of being judged harshly because of their prisons? The good news of the gospel is that the Savior can set us free. He can wash away our guilt, help us overcome our sins, and put us back on the path of righteousness and happiness. He can also help us overcome the other constraints that prevent us from progressing in life, either by removing them or by strengthening us to find peace and happiness in spite of them (Mosiah 24:15).
Isaiah prophesied that the Savior would come to “bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.” (Isaiah 61:1) How grateful I am that he allows us to share the good news that He made possible!
Today, I will speak with a voice of comfort and encouragement. I will help those around me to know and feel that their burdens can be lifted, that the barriers which enclose them can be broken down, and that their sorrow can be turned into joy through the grace of God.
Book of Mormon Study Notes 
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