2 Now these sons of Mosiah were with Alma at the time the angel first appeared unto him; therefore Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God.
3 But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.
When Alma was reunited with the sons of Mosiah after 17 years, he was overjoyed to see their spiritual maturity. In describing this event, Mormon takes the opportunity to teach us about the blessings we can receive through personal religious activities:
- As we search the scriptures diligently, we will know the word of God, we will be “strong in the knowledge of the truth,” and we will have “a sound understanding.”
- As we pray and fast, we will have the guidance of the Holy Ghost, and we will teach with power and authority.
So the scriptures give us a knowledge of true principles, while prayer and fasting enable us to apply those principles to the diverse situations we encounter in our lives.
I love studying the scriptures and understanding the truths that have been revealed by God. Today I will remember the importance of fasting and prayer in helping me to apply the truths I am learning to my daily activities.
