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.
A Proclamation
Anyone can declare something, but only a person with authority can proclaim it. Ancient prophets proclaimed truths to kings by divine authority. Modern prophets have also issued six declarations with specific messages and warnings for church members, world leaders, and all people.
“They Granted Unto Those Robbers…Lands” – 3 Nephi 6:3
Trust is always a leap of faith. When the Gadianton robbers were defeated, those who promised to stop fighting the Nephites were not only set free, they were also given the resources to build a better life. Enduring peace begins with generous trust.
Plundering, Prayers, and Paradigms
The robbers who attacked the Nephites interpreted their prayers as weakness. However, those prayers were a source of strength. Empathy not only helps us show compassion; it also helps us navigate interpersonal relationships more intelligently.
They Did Dwell in One Land, and in One Body – 3 Nephi 3:25
25 And they did fortify themselves against their enemies; and they did dwell in one land, and in one body, and they did fear the words which had been spoken by Lachoneus, insomuch that they did repent of all their sins; and they did put up their prayers unto the Lord their God, that he... Continue Reading →
Lachoneus…Could Not Be Frightened – 3 Nephi 3:12-15
12 Now behold, this Lachoneus, the governor, was a just man, and could not be frightened by the demands and the threatenings of a robber; therefore he did not hearken to the epistle of Giddianhi, the governor of the robbers, but he did cause that his people should cry unto the Lord for strength against... Continue Reading →
The Spirit of Revelation and Also Prophecy – 3 Nephi 3:19
19 Now it was the custom among all the Nephites to appoint for their chief captains, (save it were in their times of wickedness) some one that had the spirit of revelation and also prophecy; therefore, this Gidgiddoni was a great prophet among them, as also was the chief judge.(3 Nephi 3:19)People who serve in... Continue Reading →
This Lachoneus…Could Not Be Frightened – 3 Nephi 3:12
12 Now behold, this Lachoneus, the governor, was a just man, and could not be frightened by the demands and the threatenings of a robber; therefore he did not hearken to the epistle of Giddianhi, the governor of the robbers, but he did cause that his people should cry unto the Lord for strength against... Continue Reading →
3 Nephi 3:12 [He] Could Not Be Frightened by the Demands…of a Robber
12 Now behold, this Lachoneus, the governor, was a just man, and could not be frightened by the demands and the threatenings of a robber; therefore he did not hearken to the epistle of Giddianhi, the governor of the robbers, but he did cause that his people should cry unto the Lord for strength against... Continue Reading →