Thus we may see. . .

Helaman 3

Moroni continues his accounting of the people, their migration northward.  They protected the trees because there were so few.  Tens of thousands of people were converted to the church and they enjoyed prosperity. 

Verse 27 is where I find my nugget to chew on for this day.  Another “Thus we may see . . .”   It is so clear to me in reading the scriptures that we are blessed when we do what is right.  Those blessings can lead to our destruct if we forget the lessons we learn along the way.  What exactly are we taught in these few verses?

• The Lord is merciful to those who sincerely call on his holy name.
• Gate of heaven is open to all who will believe on the name of Jesus Christ
• Anyone who will read the word of God will see that it is “quick and powerful” and makes things clear enough that the righteous will be led across the “gulf of misery which is prepared to engulf the wicked”.
• Those who embrace it (word) will find themselves on the right hand of God in the kingdom of heaven.
• There may be afflictions, but by fasting and prayer we can “wax stronger” in humility and firmer in our faith of Christ.
• This faith in Christ will bring joy and consolation; purify us and sanctify our heart

 

And how can we lose these blessings?  Verse 36 – “. . .exceedingly great pride”.  Pride in what?  Riches, prosperity in the land.  This is one of the biggest lessons of the Book of Mormon.  Today we are experiencing a period of great success in the church.  There are many who have been blessed financially.  We must remember the caution given in the Book of Mormon that we are to use those blessings to bless Heavenly Father’s children.  Anything less, and we are setting ourselves up for eventual destruction.