October 29, 2010

I read Alma 43 tonight which is an account of a war between the Lamanites and Nephites. The war accounts are a very interesting part of The Book of Mormon. I believe they were included by Mormon for an inspired reason, so I try to find meaning in them and ways I can apply things from even these chapters into my own life.

In this chapter, I noticed in verse 19 it speaks of how prepared the armies of Moroni were, with breastplates, arm shields, shields, and thick clothing. On the other hand, all the opposing army had was their swords, bows and arrows, stones and slings, and they were naked except for their loincloth. I really like the imagery of this comparison in thinking of the importance of preparation and dressing ourselves with armor of God... the armor of daily, righteous living. Even though there were more Lamanites than Nephites, the Lamanites were "exceedingly afraid" of the Nephite armies because of the way they were prepared, compared to their own vulnerable nakedness.

Another thing that stood out to me was described as "designs" of the Nephite army compared to the Lamanite army. The Nephites designed to support their families, their lands and houses, their rights and liberty. The Lamanites designed to instill great anger in their armies in order to usurp power over the Nephites. The Nephites' main focus was on family and liberty and the Lamanites' main focus was on anger and power. The Lord supports those who fight with designs such as the Nephites had. At some point, sooner or later, all will be held accountable before God for their actions. Even if every war isn't won by those fighting for liberty and family, that doesn't mean those fighting on that side will never see justice meted out. I believe that justice will always be served and I want to always be found on the Lord's side of fighting for liberty and family.