Mosiah 7–10 Gospel Commentary
“In the Strength of the Lord”
Do we ever start to get a feeling of entitlement after doing good for a little while, like we are now deserving of a particular blessing for the good works we have given?
In our endeavors to help others and be obedient servants we should not think that, because of the deeds we have performed, that we have now gained some divine favor and are entitled to something. Rather we should continue in humility giving thanks for our ability to be a blessing to others, praying to know and perform the will of the Lord. In doing so, we may receive blessings that are perhaps even greater than the blessings he would have chosen for ourselves. This gospel offers a process of becoming like Jesus, not a points value system that, if we rack up enough points, we can cash in for a prize.
This is not to say that there aren’t certain blessings that are bound to actions. We are in fact guaranteed specific blessings by making and keeping sacred covenants, such as baptism, the priesthood, and especially the new and everlasting covenant of celestial marriage.
D&C 132:5 5 “For all who will have a blessing at my hands shall abide the law which was appointed for that blessing, and the conditions thereof, as were instituted from before the foundation of the world.” See also verse 7 for additional details on the nature of sacred covenants and their blessings.
Limhi's people, though now more humble, were suffering from a lack of knowledge caused by the wickedness of his father king Noah. Ammon tells him of a seer (Mosiah) that could bring light and truth. If I was to imagine a life without the council of a seer to prepare me, or to teach me how and what to be prepared for, what might I be lacking? Our prophets and seers have taught for many years that we should: get out of debt, get an education, keep a food storage, teach our children, make our homes sanctuaries of faith, creating a home centered church supported program for gospel learning and instruction, among many other things. How have these things influenced my lifestyle?
Having the confidence the comes from following the council of a prophet and seer give me the power to do what Zeniff described as “going forth in the strength of the Lord” (Mosiah 9:14-19, 10:6-10). Considering my own strength, in times of need I would much rather rely on an omnipotent being, it is my faith that gives me that reliance, it is the things I have learned from the prophets that allow me to receive and exercise faith.