Jacob was doubtless familiar with the great lesson taught by Nephi on this subject:
• “Nevertheless, I do not write anything upon plates save it be that I think it be sacred. And now, if I do err, even did they err of old; not that I would excuse myself because of other men, but because of the weakness which is in me, according to the flesh, I would excuse myself” (1 Nephi 19:6).
• “And I know that the Lord God will consecrate my prayers for the gain of my people. And the words which I have written in weakness will be made strong unto them; for it persuadeth them to do good; it maketh known unto them of their fathers; and it speaketh of Jesus, and persuadeth them to believe in him, and to endure to the end, which is life eternal” (2 Nephi 33:4).
The principle of weak things becoming strong through the blessings and grace of the Lord is a pervasive theme in the Book of Mormon and other holy scriptures. The Lord comforts Moroni in regard to his perceived weakness in translating the writings of Ether: “And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them” (Ether 12:27). See similar references in modern-day revelation (D&C 1:24; 35:17; 38:14; 62:1; 135:5; JS—H 1:28–29).
If we feel inadequate in our roles and callings, if we feel weak in relation to the duties and obligations placed upon us, if we feel humble and dependent upon our God for strength and vitality—then it is well, for the Lord will make up the difference through His benevolence and grace, and we will come off the victor in contributing in full measure to the welfare and prosperity of Zion. As Nephi stated: “For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:23).