In the agony of their hearts, Alma's people called continually upon the Lord for deliverance. Their prayers annoyed their cruel masters, and they were forbidden to pray aloud; but no tyrants, however powerful and cruel, could prevent them praying in their hearts. This, the people of Alma continued to do fervently, and in due time, although not immediately, deliverance came.
In the meantime the Lord comforted and strengthened them in their afflictions so that their burdens were more easily borne.