The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, specifically the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, focuses on several topics that are also prominent in the Book of Mormon, including disciplining speech and emotions, the corrupting influence of wealth, the dangers of pride, and the importance of family.
How Did Book of Mormon Authors Use Psalms 1-50?
Book of Mormon authors followed the "performances and ordinances" of the law of Moses, but the psalms gave them a language for spiritual life. They used psalmic language to describe their internal spiritual experiences, to preach sermons, to explain events in their narratives, and to express gratitude and joy.
Psalms 41-50
41. Consider the Poor 42 & 43. Why Art Thou Cast Down? 44. Why Sleepest Thou? 45. Thy Throne, O God 46. Be Still 47. O Clap Your Hands 48. The City of Our God 49. The Power of the Grave 50. If I Were Hungry
Psalms 11-20
11. Foundation and Tempest 12. Pure Words Like Tried Silver 13. How Long? 14. None that Doeth Good 15. Who Shall Abide in Thy Tabernacle? 16. Thou Wilt Not Leave My Soul in Hell 17. Night Visit 18. The Steel Bow 19. More Precious than Gold, Sweeter than Honey 20. The Lord Hear Thee
Bildad’s Despair
Job's friend Bildad shares a number of depressing truths, including the justice of God and our sinful state. Book of Mormon prophets mirror some of his images, including a withering plant and a snare, but follow up with additional hopeful truths: our Redeemer will save us if we choose to repent.
Esther and Abish: The Influence of Father Figures
Two women — Esther and Abish — acted with courage on behalf of their people. In both cases, a father figure had helped to build their faith. A father's influence can fortify a child for a later moment of crisis that they must face alone.
“Thou Art Come … for Such a Time as This”
The quietest person in the room may be the person with the most spiritual strength. Esther didn't feel powerful until she had to exercise her power. Abish was content to nurture her faith in solitude until circumstances compelled her to be more open. Both spoke up courageously when they were needed.
Rahab: Favored of God
Nephi taught that God destroyed the Canaanites because of their wickedness but that He is fair to all of His children: "He that is righteous is favored of God." Rahab is a case in point. A harlot living in Jericho, she was delivered from destruction after demonstrating courageous faith in the God of the Israelites.
Infusing the Light of Christ into My Life
When Lamoni accepted the gospel, "the light of the glory of God ... infused ... joy into his soul." Sister Amy A. Wright has urged us to "infuse the Light of Jesus Christ into every corner of our lives." We do this by opening our hearts to Him and by testifying of His power to save.
A Crown of Eternal Life
God promised William E. McLellin "a crown of eternal life." Book of Mormon prophets similarly promised that the righteous will "sit down in the kingdom of God. These crowns and thrones aren't the exclusive purview of a few. God wants to give the gift of eternal life to all of His children.