Nephi and Jacob both echo Isaiah's metaphor of being covered by "the robe of righteousness." Robes can encircle us and protect us. They can signify our discipleship. And they can represent purity. For all of those reasons, we can, like Nephi, plead with God to cover us in the robe of His righteousness.
Isaiah 52: A Book of Mormon-Guided Reading
Isaiah 52 is pervasive in the Book of Mormon. Verses from the chapter are quoted or interpreted by Lehi, Nephi, Jacob, Abinadi, the Savior, Mormon, and Moroni. The fact that Moroni embeds references to Isaiah 52 in his final exhortation indicates that it is central to the Book of Mormon's invitation to come unto Christ.
He Hath Borne Our Griefs, and Carried Our Sorrows
Isaiah 50-55 appear frequently in the Book of Mormon. Lehi, Jacob, Abinadi, Alma, and Jesus all quote from these chapters. At the end of the book, Moroni again alludes to them, as if to remind the reader that they contain the heart of the Book of Mormon message.
Psalms 1-10
1. The Tree and the Chaff 2. The Begotten Son 3. David's Deliverance from Absalom 4. Gladness in My Heart 5. Morning Prayer 6. Watering the Couch with Tears 7. God Trieth the Hearts and Reins 8. A Little Lower than the Angels 9. Sunk in Their Own Pit 10. Why Standest Thou Afar Off?
Yet Will I Trust in Him
Some form of the book of Job was likely on the brass plates. The book is closely paraphrased several times, and Ezekiel helps us understand that Job likely predated Lehi. All of the characters teach some truths, and the Book of Mormon can help us recognize them.
Ruth’s Pledge
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.