Moroni wasn't impressed with Ether's people. They refused to believe anything they couldn't see. What's admirable about that? Faith is admirable. It's a choice to believe in an environment of uncertainty. It's the patience to wait for promised blessings.
Ether and the Books of Kings
Ether has a lot in common with the books of 1 & 2 Kings in the Old Testament: In both accounts, we see the effects of a leader's character on their nation. Prophets deliver warnings boldly. They are not afraid to share the truth, even when it's unpopular.
Moroni’s Excellent Hope
Moroni had every reason to despair. His people had been destroyed, and he was alone. Yet he wrote extensively about the hope that we receive through the Spirit of the Lord, which helps us endure challenges and which prepares us to return to God's presence
“Like the Dog to His Vomit”
In describing the Nephites' rapid fall from righteousness to sin, the narrator paraphrases a metaphor from the book of Proverbs about dogs and vomit. Progress isn't linear, and we all experience setbacks, but God is always willing to forgive when we repent
How the Savior Succors Us
The author of Hebrews and Alma both emphasized that Jesus lived as a normal human, subject to all of our afflictions and temptations so that He would know how to succor us. To "succor" is to run to help someone in distress.
Looking Forward with An Eye of Faith
Alma invited the people of Zarahemla to "look forward with the eye of faith" to the resurrection and the Final Judgment. First, we visualize. Then, we act. Finally, with God's help, we see with our eyes what we had previously seen with "the eye of faith."
“As Often as My People Repent”
The Savior promised to forgive us "as often" as we repent. That's a comforting promise, particularly when we make mistakes repeatedly. We need to keep repenting, He'll keep forgiving, and we'll eventually stop making those mistakes with His help.
Developing Christlike Attributes
Peter listed a number of attributes that we should strive to develop with God's help: faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. The Book of Mormon provides insight into each of these Christlike attributes.
Her Perfect Work
"Let patience have her perfect work," says James. When you go through a trial, remember that it will end when its purpose is accomplished. Let the trial do its job, proving you and stretching you as part of God's plan for your happiness.
Faith and Works
Paul taught that we are saved through faith, not works. James added that we show our faith by our works. Both statements are true. Faith without works isn't really faith. Works without faith will not invite God's power.