Ruth's pledge to Naomi has parallels in the Book of Mormon. Like Nephi, she swears an oath referencing both God and her own life. Like Alma's people, she accepts a new relationship with God and with a covenant community. Like King Benjamin's people, she commits to it for the rest of her life.
As for Me and My House…
When the Young Women theme was revised in 2019, strengthening home and family was rephrased as something to do now instead of something to prepare to do. A footnote referenced Joshua's pledge, "as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Regardless of our role in our family, we can strengthen one another.
Jacob’s Blessings
God didn't just bless Abraham. He also empowered him to bless others. As we serve individuals and families within our sphere of influence, we contribute to God's work of uplifting all of His children, one individual and one family at a time.
Joseph and Nephi
Joseph's brothers resented his dreams foretelling their subservience to him. Laman and Lemuel resented Nephi for the same reason. Their anger reflected their own insecurities. Nephi and Joseph were wise to "heed them not," but to move forward, trusting God.
Open Thy Mouth, and It Shall Be Filled
When Enoch protested that he wasn't qualified to preach the gospel, God responded, "Open thy mouth, and it shall be filled." Self-consciousness and over-analysis can inhibit communication. If we are open to the Lord's guidance, He will teach us even as we teach other people.
Happiness in Family Life
Leo Tolstoy said that all happy families are alike. The Family Proclamation teaches that happy and successful families turn toward God, help family members change and grow, treat one another with kindness, and participate in meaningful activities together.
“Take Especial Care of Your Family”
God told Brigham Young to “take especial care of your family.” That counsel still stands today. President Dallin H. Oaks recently reminded us that family work, recreation, and learning are sacred priorities. When we turn off distractions, we will find sufficient time to fulfill our family responsibilities.
Patriarchal Blessings
Jacob and Lehi blessed their children near the end of their lives. Following in that tradition, modern patriarchs provide blessings which affirm recipients' inheritance of Abrahamic blessings and provide counsel and guidance specific to that individual. Patriarchal blessings are given by inspiration and should be read and interpreted with the guidance of the Holy Ghost.
Of God / Of the Devil
How do we respond to other people's spiritual experiences? A trusted leader told Joseph Smith that his first vision was "of the devil." In contrast, his father told him his vision of the angel Moroni was "of God." The Spirit can help us avoid defensiveness and recognize truth.
Out of Captivity
Nephi prophesied that people in the Americas would be freed from captivity because they would humble themselves before God. Lehi and Moroni added that God intends for this land to be free and that we will retain our liberty if we follow Him.