Alma 18

For the sake of transparency do your scriptures ever look like this.  These are mine just from the last few days.  Sometimes this tough lady can't hold back the tears I feel as I read and find answers, comfort, peace, and sometimes even more questions. The tears fall in the pages and then is dries all waves and crumbly. It has been a rough week folks but let me real....it has been a tough two months, for everyone. Just remember there is only one more week left of remote learning for school and only three weeks left of seminary! You got this! Keep hanging in there!

Final chapter for the week, Alma 18. King Lamoni is discussing all that has transpired with his servants as they stand before him testifying of Ammon's heroics at saving the king's flock.  And then after all the shock has worn off Ammon comes in, perceives Lamoni's thoughts and proceeds to teach him the gospel.

There are two things that stand out to me from this chapter. The first is the character that resides in Ammon and second is his ability to teach the gospel.  I don't know about you but I want to be remembered and known for my strength of character.  As I studied this chapter and the previous one there were several things that stood out to me about the kind of person Ammon was.

1. He was always out serving.  This king's son knew the power, influence, and trust built on service. (Alma 17:25)
2. He not only served but with exact obedience to not only God's commandments but the commandments Lamoni gave him.  (Alma 18:12) What examples of integrity and obedience, even loyalty. 
3. He prepared by fasting, praying, and studying. (Alma 17:2-3)
4. He even went forward believing that with the help of God he could make a difference (Alma 17:13).

These are all things I could see myself, and all of us, translating into our own life.  Are we looking for ways to serve, always? How obedient am I to God's commandments? What about direct from mom and dad, or a trusted teacher or leader? How consistent and focused are my efforts to pray, study, and fast? Do I really move forward believing with God's help anything is possible?  

Ammon's character is what allowed him to be such an amazing teacher.  King Lamoni trusted Ammon because of his character.  Ammon because of his character had the Holy Ghost with him always and was then able to know how to best help his student, Lamoni.  Throughout our lives we will have the ability to teach.  We teach in our homes, in callings, on missions, in classes, and so many other platforms.  I was impressed out how crucial our character plays into our ability to teach because our character determines our ability to hear, respond, and teach with the Holy Ghost. 

Hopefully after your reading today you are nudge by something you can do to strengthen your character allowing you to be more in tune with the Holy Ghost.