Book of Mormon Messages.

President Matthews taught us that two (there are many) of the
messages to look for in the Book of Mormon are,

 Why Were They Destroyed?

 and

 How to get rescued.

Yesterday, while reading Helaman 4:12-13

there was an interesting list and lessons to be learned.

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The Lamanites had defeated the wicked Nephites.

Prophets preached to the Nephites and prophesied concerning their iniquities,

 and what would come of them if they did not repent of their sins. 

The list included:

• Pride of their hearts.
• Exceeding riches.
• Oppression to the poor.
• Withholding their food from the hungry.
• Withholding their clothing from the naked.
• Smiting their humble brethren upon the cheek.
• Making a mock of that which was sacred.
• Denying the spirit of prophecy and of revelation.
• Murdering.
• Plundering.
• Lying.
• Stealing.
• Committing adultery.
• Rising up in great contentions.

13.  And because of this their great wickedness, and their boastings in their own strength, they were left in their own strength;  therefore they did not prosper, but were afflicted and smitten, and driven before the Lamanites, until they had lost possession of almost all their lands.

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(When they were righteous, humble, thankful and would acknowledge God's help and strength, they were blessed, but when they boasted and forgot where their blessings came from they were left to themselves.)
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 It is important that we understand how to receive the strength and guidance that is needed in our lives for ourselves and for our families.
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."     John 14:15

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        ~~Blessings~~