2 Nephi 4 (10/5)
READING ASSIGNMENT for class on 10/6: 2 Nephi 4
Points to Ponder:
- What major changes happened in Nephi's family in this chapter?
- How did that affect Nephi?
- What can we learn from Nephi about dealing with depression?
- What are your favorite power phrases (inspired one-liners) from this chapter?
President James E.
Faust
“Sincere prayers
come from the heart. Indeed, sincerity requires that we draw from the earnest
feelings of our hearts” (James E. Faust, “The Lifeline of Prayer,” Ensign, May
2002, 60).
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2 Nephi 4:16–35. Overcoming our sins and weaknesses
As we study Nephi’s heartfelt plea for the Lord to help him overcome his sins and weaknesses, we see that we can go to the Lord for that same help. Nephi’s words are echoed in the words of latter-day prophets.
The Prophet Joseph Smith (1805–44) taught:
“The nearer man approaches perfection, the clearer are his views, and the greater his enjoyments, till he has overcome the evils of his life and lost every desire for sin” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 210–11).
Elder Richard G. Scott (1928–2015) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles testified of the blessings we receive when we repent:
“Why have our Father and His Son commanded us to repent? Because they love us. They know all of us will violate eternal laws. Whether they be small or large, justice requires that every broken law be satisfied to retain the promise of joy in this life and the privilege of returning to Father in Heaven. If not satisfied, in the Day of Judgment justice will cause that we be cast out of the presence of God to be under the control of Satan [see 2 Nephi 9:8–10; 2 Nephi 2:5].
“It is our Master and His redeeming act that make it possible for us to avoid such condemnation. It is done through faith in Jesus Christ, obedience to His commandments, and enduring in righteousness to the end.
“Are you taking full advantage of the redeeming power of repentance in your life so that you can have greater peace and joy? Feelings of turmoil and despondency often signal a need for repentance. Also the lack of the spiritual direction you seek in your life could result from broken laws. If needed, full repentance will put your life together. It will solve all of the complex spiritual pains that come from transgression. But in this life it cannot remedy some of the physical consequences that can occur from serious sin. Be wise and consistently live well within the boundaries of righteousness defined by the Lord” (Richard G. Scott, “The Path to Peace and Joy,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 25).
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