Do we make repentance harder than it needs to be by thinking of it as the beginning of the process instead of the end? The Savior has already paid the price for our sins in full. All we have to do is set aside our chains, let them go, and walk away.
“If Ye Will Repent…”
Samuel the Lamanite came to Zarahemla with a stern warning, coupled with a hopeful promise. He repeatedly promised his listeners that God would rescue them from their bad decisions if they would choose to repent. God always forgives those who repent.
The Work of Justice
Alma told Corianton that God's work of justice cannot operate except on conditions of repentance. He meant that He will not transform us unless we are willing to be changed. It would be unjust for Him to give us something we don't want and would not value
Psalm 95 and Alma 12-13
Alma doesn't tell us that he's quoting from Psalm 95, but during his sermon in Ammonihah, he elaborates on phrases and concepts from that psalm. The central message: repent now, be receptive to God, and He will give you peace and stability.
Weakness vs. Rebellion
God distinguishes between unintentional errors (sinning in ignorance) and intentional ones (sinning against light and knowledge). He can help us overcome both, but the repentance process may be different when we need to change our desires and motives.
A Personal Interview
I took Elder M. Russell Ballard's challenge to hold a personal interview using Alma 5. As a result, I resolved to remember, to be more adaptable, to exercise faith, to let go of pride, to respect others' experiences, and to change some patterns of thought
“If Thou Wilt of Thyself…”
When someone's choosing unwisely, you might propose they think about the impact of their actions on other people. Alma's angel took the opposite approach, urging him to think about their impact on him. Are your choices making you stronger and happier?
Admonishing and Being Admonished
Alma and his fellow church leaders admonished one another. It might seem strange that imperfect people should correct each other, but that's the way the church works. We were "baptized unto repentance," meaning that we are humble and willing to change.
Sackcloth and Ashes
The people of Ninevah dressed in sackcloth and sat in ashes to symbolize their penitence. As a result, God turned away the consequences Jonah had prophesied. Abinadi likewise urged his people to "repent in sackcloth and ashes," but they did not.
Trusting the Answers We Receive from God
"Counsel me not," says the Lord of the vineyard when his servant questions a prior decision. Jacob urges us to "take counsel from [the Lord's] hand." An important part of that is trusting the revelation you have already received on a given topic.