Some thoughts and good words from studying the Book of Mormon lately:
The Lord didn’t command Nephi to build a ship until after an 8-year wilderness journey, followed by many days of rest in a bountiful place. You may be in the wilderness level of experience some days, focused on survival. There is value in the wilderness experience, and don’t be frustrated you are not asked to do creative tasks at this time. There will be a bountiful life ahead and creative endeavors to come. (1 Nephi 17:1-2, 6-8)
Even the simplest words, given in faith, can have great effect. (2 Nephi 3:20-21)
“Many shall be afflicted in the flesh, and shall not be suffered to perish, because of the prayers of the faithful.” (2 Nephi 6:11) The Lord is consistent throughout history: the prayers of the faithful bring help to all around. Keep praying for relief from Covid-19, for the gathering of Israel, and for softened hearts for mankind. Prayer is a work best done in isolation.
To the degree that I rely on the “sparks” kindled by others over the light that Christ offers, I need to repent. Seek his light above other philosophies and ideas. (2 Nephi 7:11)
Being separated from what you know is not to be “cast off.” The Lord leads the righteous to a better place. Focus on the blessings and opportunities from this isolating time. (2 Nephi 10:20)
“The Lord hath commanded … That they should not have malice, that they should not contend one with another…whoso doeth them shall perish.” (2 Nephi 26:22)
“He denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female…all are alike unto God.” (2 Nephi 27:33)
“They that erred in spirit shall come to understanding” (2 Nephi 27:35) Truth will not elude us forever, and we can be patient with one another as we do our best to figure things out right now.
God still rules the earth, not just the heavens. (2 Nephi 29:7)
Reception of the Holy Ghost brings the ability to SPEAK with the tongue of angels, not just receive from them. We should be active in speaking our faith wherever we are. To do this, we need to feast on the words of Christ so we know how to act in our own circumstances. (2 Nephi 32:2-3)
There is so much knowledge in plain sight in the Book of Mormon, but it takes searching to find. (2 Nephi 32:7)
You can be one of the “many who have many revelations daily” if you repent and if you have faith. (Jarom 1:4)