Asa started his reign on a high note. He rested on God, he and his people sought God, and God blessed him. But somehow, his faith slipped. He sought help from a Syrian king instead of God, and he imprisoned a prophet who chastised him. It's important not to become complacent during good times.
Resting and Exerting Themselves
Two leaders — Hezekiah and Lachoneus — both faced threats from invading armies. Both inspired their people to trust in God. Hezekiah's people "rested" on his words; Lachoneus's people were spurred to action. In both cases, their faith in God overcame their fear and allowed them to move forward.
“If Ye Will Not Believe…”
As the king of Judah faced the invading armies of Israel and Syria, Isaiah urged him to hold firm, saying, "If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established." Nephi quoted this story, emphasizing the inseparability of stability from belief. "Believe in Christ, ... for it is by grace that we are saved."
David and Ammon
Both David and Ammon trusted God's promise to fight their battles. Both of them faced formidable enemies, and in both cases, the king they served was impressed with their victory. But Saul reacted with jealousy while Lamoni humbled himself, leading to a miraculous conversion. Miracles follow faith, and with humility, conversion can follow miracles.
Two Gideons: The Sword of the Lord
Two men, both named Gideon, fought with swords but trusted God to lead them to victory. Both implemented creative strategies to lead their people out of captivity, despite being outnumbered. We can move forward with confidence when we remember that God will fight our battles.
Choose Ye This Day
Joshua challenged his people to commit to serve God and avoid idolatry. He framed this call to commitment in terms of agency: Choose you this day. Nephi's descendants saw this scripture both as an affirmation of religious liberty and as a call to religious fidelity.
There Failed Not Ought
The author of Joshua steps back near the end of the book to clearly state the core message of the book: God keeps His promises. Mormon provides similar conclusions in the Book of Mormon, even inviting readers to conduct their own inventory and see for themselves.
Joshua and Moroni: Lessons from the War Chapters
The battles described in the Old Testament and the Book of Mormon can teach us important principles. The experiences of both Joshua and Captain Moroni demonstrate the importance of preparedness, focus, and faith.
Joshua’s Twin Admonitions
Two admonitions function as bookends to the book of Joshua: "Be strong and of a good courage," and "Choose ye this day whom ye will serve." The stripling warriors in the Book of Mormon demonstrate that these admonitions are complementary and mutually reinforcing.
We Are Well Able: Caleb and Joshua
Twelve scouts saw the same promised land. Ten saw walled cities and said, "We can't do it." Two saw milk and honey and said, "We are well able." When challenges come, recognize the positive signs, keep the negative in perspective, and trust that God can help you achieve worthy goals.