From these verses written by Zenos in the form of a prayer, literally a psalm of thanksgiving, we obtain a sketch of his prophetic activities. Because of his witness of the Redeemer, Zenos was put to death by his enemies (see Helaman 8:19). Alma quotes the psalm because it illustrates the propriety of praying in whatever circumstance one finds oneself, be it wilderness, fields, home, or closet. In so doing, he places special emphasis on the mercy extended to men through the atonement of the Son of God.