When the children of Israel prayed for relief as they suffered in slavery, God remembered His covenant with their ancestors. The Book of Mormon testifies that we never need feel isolated or rejected because God will remember His covenants.
Wickedness
The Book of Mormon teaches several principles which can help us navigate environments where people are making wrong choices. 1. We are all wicked. 2. Wickedness is not binary. 3. Wickedness need not be permanent. 4. As we become less wicked, God can entrust us with more responsibilities.
“To Disabuse the Public Mind”
Joseph Smith wrote his history in response to disinformation. His purpose was "to disabuse the public mind" by putting them in possession of the facts. When we trust our listeners to be fair-minded, we share information which is beneficial to them.
Upon the Housetops
We all have things we'd like to keep private. It's important to remember that permanent privacy is unachievable. The Lord warned that our iniquities will be "spoken uon the housetops." Fortunately, we can repent now and be prepared for that day.
“Therefore Repent”
Mormon lists a number of things he wants the Lamanites to know. Then, he tells them what he wants them to do with that knowledge: repent and be baptized. Many of the most important truths we know can and should be converted into practical action.
“I…Did Repent of the Oath”
Seventeen years after resigning as commander of the Nephite army, Mormon came back. His people were still unrepentant, and he knew that they would be destroyed. Why did he come back? Because he loved them. They were still his people.
The Remnant Shall Return
Isaiah's prophecy about the remnant of Israel returning to God assures that no matter how far they are from home, they are not out of God's sight. Book of Mormon authors echo this sentiment: God is mindful of you, wherever you are, and you can come home.
The Own Due Time
Lehi told his family that their people would return to Jerusalem "in the own due time of the Lord." We are often in a hurry. When we know something needs to happen, we want it to happen now. God knows not only what needs to happen but also when. We can trust His timing.
Jesus Is the Christ
The Greek word Christos means "the Anointed One." It is the equivalent of the Hebrew word Mashiach (Messiah). Lehi taught his children that the Messiah would be the Savior of the World. Nephi and Mormon testified that Jesus is the Christ.
“He Shall Reign For Ever and Ever”
In a world of turmoil, it is nice to know that our God has all power, that He governs the universe, and that His kingdom of peace and happiness will one day replace the imperfect leadership of earthly governments.