Thoughts from Seminary: 8/23/13

On Friday, we talked about 1 Nephi Chapter 2. Once again, we had an emphasis on gratitude, even when things seem bleak. In 1 Nephi 2 in particular, Lehi, having been warned by God, takes his family, packs the camels, and leaves Jerusalem. Lehi was likely a prosperous merchant with a thriving business -- we know for sure that they left "riches" behind. Yet he leaves all of this, and essentially goes to camp-out in the desert. His two eldest sons -- Laman and Lemuel -- complain constantly, calling their father a fool, saying he's deluded. Nephi, on the other hand, prays to The Lord, and finds out what his dad knows for himself. 

In the end, Lehi still praises The Lord. He offers sacrifices in the wilderness after they left Jerusalem. Despite some unsupportive children, a loss of worldly wealth, and harsh living circumstances, Lehi (and Nephi) keep their eyes on what's important, and they're blessed for that.