1. The effectual prayer of the righteous avails much (see James 5:16). The appearance of the angel to Alma came not because of his worthiness but because of that of his parents, who prayed for his conversion with all their heart and soul, and also in response to the united prayers of the congregation of Saints.
“And again, the angel said: Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the knowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to convince thee of the power and authority of God, that the prayers of his servants might be answered according to their faith” (Mosiah 27:14).