Shortly before the Savior’s birth, Hagoth built ships and sent explorers northward from the “narrow neck of land” on the west sea coast of the Nephites’ promised land. Interestingly, on the Pacific side of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec—which qualifies on multiple criteria as the narrow neck of land—lie two lagoons, more than thirty miles in length. These sheltered bodies of water would have been ideal for the building and testing of Hagoth’s ships. Many centuries later in the mountains overlooking the lagoons, Spaniards found timber suitable for shipbuilding. (See Echoes, 298.)
Concluding Thoughts
Lives are stabilized and sanctified when we honor our covenants with the Lord. When we have faith in God, we fear not, neither do we doubt. Moreover, charity and meekness overcome the inevitable misunderstandings that can arise at times among family members and associates. What great, God-given patterns of living are put forward and confirmed in the Book of Mormon!
Covenants are kept because of our deep and abiding faith and, through purposeful action, we are anchored in the power of the Lord Jesus Christ. The sons of Helaman—the 2,060 stripling warriors—demonstrated this in their very lives. They doubted not, for this faith came because they were taught by their mothers. We, too, can do all things by faith. That is why the ancient apostles asked the Lord to increase their faith (see Luke 17:5). It is through faith, hope, and charity that we are qualified for the work (see D&C 4:5). Faith, hope, and charity are integrally connected: as we increase in faith by hearing the word (see Rom. 10:17) and reinforcing it through prayer (see Helaman 3:35), we will likewise grow in charity, the pure love of Christ. Pahoran demonstrated this just as it has been demonstrated on countless occasions in our day as well. Surely, charity never faileth.