“The word condescension means ‘to descend’ (from the Latin com, an intensive, and descendere ‘to descend’). In English the word means that an entity of superior status does something beneath its rank for the benefit of someone else. The phrase ‘condescension of God’ occurs twice in the Book of Mormon, both in Nephi’s vision of the tree of life: one has reference to God the Father (1 Ne. 11:16), and the other refers to Jesus Christ (1 Ne. 11:26). The condescension of God is a manifestation of love … .
“Thus the Father and the Son came down to earth to provide a Savior who ‘descended below all things that He might rise above all things’ (First Presidency [Deseret News, Dec. 17, 1904]). Their condescension ensured that their children could ‘be lifted up at the last day’ (3 Ne. 27:22)” (Largey, Book of Mormon Reference Companion, 213).
How does a knowledge of the goodness of God help us face life’s difficulties? (11:17) “Nephi had a great knowledge of the goodness of God, hence Nephi’s firm declaration: ‘I know that [God] loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things’ (1 Ne. 1:1; 1 Ne. 11:17). If we have a love of God and know His goodness, we will trust Him, even when we are puzzled or perplexed” (Maxwell, “Lessons from Laman and Lemuel,” 6).