The Stripling Warriors

Church Educational System
The young Ammonite warriors exemplified the type of manhood which all of God’s sons should emulate. These warriors were committed to the defense of their country and the preservation of liberty (see Alma 53:17). They were men of courage, truth, and righteousness (see vv. 20–21). They were fearless, selfless, and men of great faith (see Alma 56:45–48, 56). God rewarded their faith with amazing protection (see Alma 57:25–26).

Note how clearly those young men fit the following admonition and prophetic promise from the First Presidency of the Church in modern times:

“To our young men who go into service, no matter whom they serve or where, we say live clean, keep the commandments of the Lord, pray to Him constantly to preserve you in truth and righteousness, live as you pray, and then whatever betides you the Lord will be with you and nothing will happen to you that will not be to the honor and glory of God and to your salvation and exaltation. There will come into your hearts from the living of the pure life you pray for, a joy that will pass your powers of expression or understanding. The Lord will be always near you; He will comfort you; you will feel His presence in the hour of your greatest tribulation; He will guard and protect you to the full extent that accords with His all-wise purpose. Then, when the conflict is over and you return to your homes, having lived the righteous life, how great will be your happiness—whether you be of the victors or of the vanquished—that you have lived as the Lord commanded. You will return so disciplined in righteousness that thereafter all Satan’s wiles and stratagems will leave you untouched. Your faith and testimony will be strong beyond breaking. You will be looked up to and revered as having passed through the fiery furnace of trial and temptation and come forth unharmed. Your brethren will look to you for counsel, support, and guidance. You will be the anchors to which thereafter the youth of Zion will moor their faith in man”

(Heber J. Grant, J. Reuben Clark, Jr., David O. McKay,
in Conference Report, Apr. 1942, p. 96).

Book of Mormon Student Manual (1996 Edition)

References