21 Yea, and they did obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them; and I did remember the words which they said unto me that their mothers had taught them.
The sons of Helaman provide us with a model of obedience to a righteous leader. Helaman praises them by stating that they “did perform every word of command with exactness.” He was impressed not only with their righteousness and faith but also with their conscientiousness in following the instructions given to them by their leaders.
This exact obedience not only enabled them to demonstrate their love for the Lord and their commitment to righteousness, but it also enabled them to be an effective army. Imagine 2,000 young men operating as a single unit. That is only possible when each individual is willing and able to sublimate his own individual ambitions and impulses to the requirements of the group. That requires humility and commitment.
Today, I will remember that my exact obedience enables me not only to show my love for the Lord, but also to contribute effectively to the collective work of building His kingdom on the earth.
