July 28, 2010

I read tonight the account of what Alma taught King Lamoni in Alma chapter 18. I really love the example of Alma in how to be an instrument in the Lord's hands. The only thing he focused on was serving the king perfectly. In fact, the king is so impressed with him that he says, "Surely there has not been any servant among all my servants that has been so faithful as this man; for even he doth remember all my commandments to execute them." When I read that, I actually thought of using Alma's example of remembering commandments and then executing them in relation to our Heavenly Father. I want to remember His commandments and execute them too. I want Him to say of me that I have been one of His faithful servants. I have the example of many other servants of the Lord to follow... especially the prophet. I am grateful for his loving service and Christlike example in all that he does and says.

The next point of example in Alma's actions is that he listened. He listened to King Lamoni (even though he wasn't saying much at first) and he listened to the Spirit. The Spirit helped him discern the king's thoughts. Then he asked questions. After all this was when King Lamoni asked Alma to tell him straight up, to "speak boldly" and tell him who he is - what is his mission and by what authority does he work? Alma then proceeds to boldly declare and teach the truths of the gospel, the plan of salvation, and the coming role of the Messiah. King Lamoni listened, so openly that he became overcome by the Spirit and was like was dead for two days. That was a life changing moment for King Lamoni and Alma was an instrument in the Lord's hands for bringing that about. So, I've learned from the chapter, the pattern to follow to be an instrument in the Lord's hands to help others have life changing moments. The pattern is to serve wholeheartedly and with exactness, then listen, then ask questions, then boldly declare my testimony and the truths I know about the plan of salvation and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. With service being the foundation, it is clear to see how important it is to learn to serve and it is also so important to teach my children the importance of service. Because service is what opens the door to a heart changing and receiving Christ.