This statement by Nephi is among the most often quoted passages from the Book of Mormon. To press forward with steadfastness, with a firm and constant devotion to the Savior, and to endure to the end with unrelenting and fixed determination—these are the crowning attributes of discipleship. Nephi was the Lord’s witness of the fact that entering into a covenant relationship with God, though indispensable for salvation and exaltation, is, in and of itself, not enough. One has to extend the covenant fidelity without limit. One has to endure to the end with an unyielding steadfastness in Christ—just as Nephi exemplified through his ministry, and just as the prophets of the Lord have demonstrated in all dispensations of time.
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin draws our attention to enduring to the end in the marathon of life: “An obvious parallel between life and a marathon is the necessity to run diligently and endure to the end. Among Nephi’s final words to his people were these: ‘And now, … after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; … Ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ … and endure to the end’ (2 Nephi 31:19–20). I think of this promise of the Lord: ‘They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.’ (Isaiah 40:31.) We have that promise.” (Finding Peace in Our Lives [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1995], 153).