Moses charged Joshua to "be strong and of a good courage" when he called him to lead Israel. Nephi gave the same charge to his brothers as they worked to obtain the brass plates. We can also be strong and courageous as we fulfill difficult assignments from God.
Beware Lest Thou Forget the Lord
At the end of Moses's life, he delivered a series of discourses to prepare his people to enter their promised land. Book of Mormon prophets quote from these sermons, applying them to their own people and to us. Moses's words in Deuteronomy can help us prepare to enter our promised lands.
Rebel Not Ye Against the Lord, Neither Fear
The book of Numbers is an account of the Israelites' experiences during their forty-year sojourn in the wilderness. Its stories teach the importance of simple faith and of avoiding overcomplicating things.
Holiness to the Lord
Through Moses, the Lord gave the children of Israel a law. It's a wondrous set of objects, activities, and sacred times all intended to point their hearts to the salvation He would provide them. The Nephites lived this law, recognizing that it pointed their minds forward to Jesus Christ.
“All That the Lord Hath Spoken We Will Do”
Moses received more than tablets of stone on Mount Sinai. He received glory which was visible on his countenance, and he received a law which pointed his people toward salvation. Abinadi taught that the law was tailored to the needs of a stiffnecked people and that it pointed them toward the Savior, Jesus Christ.
Stand Still, and See the Salvation of the Lord
Nephi strengthened his brothers' faith by reminding them of multiple miracles God performed on behalf of their ancestors: parting the Red Sea, providing manna, and bringing water from a rock. As we remember these events, our faith can also be strengthened, so that we can invite miracles into our lives.
“Remember This Day, in Which Ye Came Out from Egypt”
Passover represents not only miraculous deliverance, but prolonged discouragement leading to liberation. It represents not only escape from a devastating plague but also the end of the plagues. It reminds us that God is there, as we pass through difficult challenges, and that if we don't yet see Him acting on our behalf, we will.
“He Will Swallow Up Death in Victory”
Jesus explained to His disciples that Old Testament prophets had prophesied of Him. Abinadi taught that all prophets have spoken of Christ. This week, as we celebrate Holy Week, let's pay attention to ways in which Old Testament writings not only anticipated but also help us understand His atoning sacrifice.
“I Have Remembered My Covenant”
When the children of Israel prayed for relief as they suffered in slavery, God remembered His covenant with their ancestors. The Book of Mormon testifies that we never need feel isolated or rejected because God will remember His covenants.
“God Meant It Unto Good”
The reconciliation of Jacob's family is a powerful example of how ruptures can be healed and peace restored. At the end of his life, Jacob found joy in being with his children and grandchildren. Upon his death, he was gathered in burial with other family members: his parents, his grandparents, and his wife Leah.