Live After the Manner of Happiness

Jarom

One chapter, but it says a lot about the people of Nephi in this period of time. They lived after the manner of happiness. They were industrious, united and prepared against their enemy, the Lamanites. They had prophets who preached repentance to them continually. They “waxed strong in the land”.

I went to a fireside yesterday by Tim Ballard, the author of “American Covenant”. It was totally fascinating and is shedding a brighter light on what it is I am reading in the Book of Mormon. The Pilgrams were infused with a deeper understanding of the purpose in being on this great land. Some of the leaders who got them here had actually visited with angels and spoke of it. Columbus was one of them. He said he was driven by the Spirit to discover this land. The spirit they brought with them was what this author calls “The American Covenant”. This book tells of the many miracles that happened to find it, inhabit it, and preserve it. The American Covenant is the same as the Abrahamic Covenant. I bought the book, and it is quite likely I will be sharing some of the things I am reading – if I can find the time to read it.

What have I learned from reading this morning? Perhaps it is that our nation is in trouble. We are not living in the manner of happiness as the Nephites were in Jarom's time. We are ignoring the words of the prophets as a nation, and we are paying the price. Current events are reading like a very sad novel these days and we are all waiting for the Lord to say “enough!” In many places he has gotten the attention of many, and many rise to the occasion to help others. But we're still a long way from living after the manner of happiness. How can I personally live after this manner? Keep the commandments, prepare for the future, and help others see their responsibility to do the same.