17 Yea, in the strength of the Lord did we go forth to battle against the Lamanites; for I and my people did cry mightily to the Lord that he would deliver us out of the hands of our enemies, for we were awakened to a remembrance of the deliverance of our fathers.
Earlier in the chapter, Zeniff relates that “we were smitten… for we were slow to remember the Lord our God.” Now, as they prepared for battle, they were “awakened to a remembrance of the deliverance of [their] God” (Mosiah 9:3). That awakening unlocked the powers of heaven so that they were able to fight “in the strength of the Lord.” There was a direct connection between remembering the Lord and receiving his blessings.
When Alma the Younger was called to repentance by an angel, he was told to “go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them; for they were in bondage, and he has delivered them” (Mosiah 27:16). Thereafter, in Alma’s teaching, he frequently urged his listeners to remember the captivity of their fathers. (See Alma 5:6-9, Alma 29:11-12, Alma 36:2, Alma 36:29.)
Today, I will intentionally remember the times when the Lord has delivered me and others. I will remember that if He could deliver the people of King Zeniff from the Lamanites, then He can also deliver me from the challenges I will face today.
Another great reason to record and tell our children about our experiences with God and times we've been delivered or helped through challenges. Sometimes we keep these private, but they can help others. Perhaps our experiences in receiving divine help will be brought to the minds of our children when they need it. Thanks for your insight.
Special attention should be given the word “Remember” or “Remembrance” when we read our scriptures. It is Lord who will bring us through the Red Sea on dry ground if we consistently acknowledge our dependence on Him. It is the Savior who will captain us over the River Jordan if we express gratitude to Him, who is mighty to save. God's hand is truly extended to us all the day long.
Thanks for your testimony of this principle. Remembering is such an important part of retaining a remission of our sins, keeping our testimony burning brightly, and progressing toward exaltation.