Alma 31

"...as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just - yea, it had had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword or anything else...Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God."

Alma 31:5

My thoughts:

The word is stronger than anything else because

the word of God motivates His people to change.

It aligns the will of the people with the will of God.

Alma knew this - 

he had seen it with the great success of the sons of Mosiah

among the people of Ammon (Anti-Nephi-Lehis)

He knew that if he wanted the people to really change - 

they needed to be converted.

******

"...continue in prayer and supplication to God daily, that they might not enter into temptation."

My thoughts:

It's the little things that matter -

the daily acts that convert us 

and realign us with God -

every day.

******

"...O Lord, wilt thou give me strength...that I may bear with patience mine infirmities. For I am infirm, and such wickedness among this people doth pain my soul."

Alma 31:30

My thoughts:

Oftentimes the greatest pain we feel in this life comes 

because of the poor choices of those we love.

The glorious gift of agency blesses our lives when used correctly.

But when used incorrectly it can bring deep pain not only to ourselves,

but those who love us.

When those we love stray,

and their choices break our hearts,

we can turn to the Lord for strength.

(Continue to read Alma 31:31-35)