Week 5

The gadianton robbers are probably the scariest group in the Book of Mormon. Everything about them is terrifying. The fate of all three of Pahorans' sons is so sad. First of all they fight with each other for the judgment seat and then they all die in the span of like one year of each other. I think one lesson we can take from this tragic story is to not seek for power. It will be your downfall. Another message from this reading is the importance of fortifying the inside. While the Nephites were fighting among themselves, the Lamanites come to the center of the city, Zarahemla, and take the city. Someone in class said, it’s much easier to prepare and prevent than repair and repent. Again the theme of the Nephite dissenters being the ones to stir the Lamanites up to go to battle against the Nephites is a lesson in these chapters. The ones who have had greater light and knowledge are more hardened and bitter towards God when they turn away than those who haven't had the gospel. We have to be so careful to not let trials and pain harden us and turn us away from God. Another theme that is continually revisited is the fact that the Nephites only loose battles when they are wicked. When they are righteous they are strengthened in the Lord and are able to beat the Lamanites. I really like this principle because it is a powerful miracle. God decides who wins and looses. It doesn't matter who has more warriors fighting or who technically has the advantage, God is in charge. If we are keeping the commandments and living righteously God will bless us. He will reward us for giving Him our will and our time. I really need to remember this principle especially now in my life. I know that if I put God first He will bless me to do better in every aspect in my life but it's so hard to actually apply it when I get busy and overwhelmed and stressed! I have to remind myself of the blessings and miracles I've seen in the past from living this way and trust in God's promises.