9 And now, in your epistle you have censured me, but it mattereth not; I am not angry, but do rejoice in the greatness of your heart. I, Pahoran, do not seek for power, save only to retain my judgment-seat that I may preserve the rights and the liberty of my people. My soul standeth fast in that liberty in the which God hath made us free.
Even though Pahoran has been forced out of Zarahemla, and even though he needs Moroni’s help to regain control of the capitol, he still gives an impression of stability and composure:
- I’m not angry, he says, even though you’ve censured me. (He might have said “censured me wrongly;” Moroni had certainly jumped to false conclusions about Pahoran’s actions and his motives.) It is vital for a leader not to take things personally and not to become unhinged every time he or she is unfairly treated.
- I’m not trying to expand my power, but I will fight to retain the judgment seat I have been given. It is important to distinguish between personal ambition and acting for the good of the group. A leader should be unselfish. At the same time, a leader must have respect for his or her office of responsibility, and must take action to establish and maintain order.
- My soul stands fast in the liberty God has given us. When we have been blessed by the Lord, part of the way we demonstrate our gratitude is by maintaining and defending the blessings we have been given. When God makes us free, we ought to take those actions which will enable us to retain that liberty. (See Galatians 5:1, Mosiah 23:13, Alma 58:40, Alma 61:21.)
Today, I will follow Pahoran’s example of steadiness. I will not overreact if I’m mistreated. I will fulfill my responsibilities with dignity and self-respect. And I will stand fast in the liberty in which God has made me free.
Book of Mormon Study Notes 
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