Helaman's role so far has been to preach the word of God (Alma 48:19). Helaman was the custodian of the Nephite record and presumably the chief high priest of the church (see heading for Alma 45 and Alma 46:6). According to the record, he had absolutely no military experience. Yet, true to form, the spiritually-minded sons of Helaman chose to be led by a man experienced in the ways of the Spirit rather than someone experienced in the ways of war. The relationship of trust and mutual respect which developed is unparalleled, for Helaman later said, 'they did observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them' (Alma 57:21).