Mosiah 21 - 22

In these chapters King Limhi’s people faced the difficult reality of living under Lamanite oppression. Yes, it was a consequence of their sinfulness. But it was still difficult. Frustrated, they initially reacted with pride. As PMG explains on pgs 131-132, pride means putting greater trust in oneself than in God and can become a great stumbling block. They still hadn’t learned humility, which is putting greater trust in God than oneself.

So, while still relying strictly on their own strength, Limhi's people went to war three times to fight for their freedom. Each time, they were defeated with great loss of life (Mosiah 21:11–12).

These desperate circumstances, and painful loss of life, eventually taught them humility, a sign of spiritual strength, not weakness. They "did humble themselves even to the dust... crying mightily to God that he would deliver them" (Mosiah 21:13–14). This shift perfectly illustrates the definition of humility, a willingness to submit to the will of the Lord and an acknowledgment of our constant need for His help.

When we humbly trust the Lord, we gain the confidence that we can do whatever He requires if we rely on Him. For Limhi's people, this humility made them teachable and willing to trust God's servants. When Ammon and Gideon arrived with a plan, the people chose to follow their counsel rather than trying to force their own way again.

Another theme from this story is that sometimes the Lord does not deliver us immediately. He did not deliver them instantly, but He began easing their burdens because He helps those who are humble (Mosiah 21:15). Eventually, the Lord provided a practical, peaceful escape through a back pass while the drunken guards slept (Mosiah 22:6–11).

Humility acts as a vital catalyst for spiritual growth. By shifting from prideful reliance on self to divine reliance, Limhi’s people proved that when we align our efforts with the Lord, the impossible becomes completely doable.

We love this verse, “And it came to pass that they began to prosper by degrees in the land…” (Mosiah 21:16)

There are a lot of examples of this in our lives as missionaries. Maybe you’re working on a Christlike attribute, breaking a bad habit, or even working to be a more obedient missionary.

Be humble and ask the Lord for help. Then make an effort. Just watch closely as you begin to “prosper by degrees”, finding more people to teach, having the days go by faster, having less drunks on the street, feeling the pain of walking the hills a little less, or maybe even having more of your friends come to Church and make and keep commitments.

Let’s not rely on our own strength. Let’s be humble and obedient, as we fulfill our missionary purpose, and watch the Lord prosper us by degrees!

Finally, look at how important changing and being baptized was to them!

32 And now since the coming of Ammon, king Limhi had also entered into a covenant with God, and also many of his people, to serve him and keep his commandments.

33 And it came to pass that king Limhi and many of his people were desirous to be baptized; but there was none in the land that had authority from God. And Ammon declined doing this thing, considering himself an unworthy servant.

34 Therefore they did not at that time form themselves into a church, waiting upon the Spirit of the Lord. Now they were desirous to become even as Alma and his brethren, who had fled into the wilderness.

35 They were desirous to be baptized as a witness and a testimony that they were willing to serve God with all their hearts; nevertheless they did prolong the time; and an account of their baptism shall be given hereafter.

Mosiah 21:32–35

Elders and Sisters, isn’t it great that we have received the power of the Priesthood and with that authority we can teach our friends about repentance, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and baptism, and they can choose to be baptized! It is such a great blessing that they don’t have to wait like Limhi’s people, because of your efforts and priesthood authority!

We love you so very much! Enjoy P-Day!