“Stand Fast in the Liberty of God”

Monte S. Nyman

Again Helaman praises his stripling warriors. Their faith in the teachings of their mothers was honored by God, not even one of the two thousand and sixty young men lost his life (v. 39). Although many wounds were received, they stood fast in the liberty that God had granted unto them (v. 39). They stand as witnesses to our young people of today who face military service and war. First, they were strict to remember God from day to day (v. 40). They sought his protection, and recognized his hand in all things (v. 35). Theirs was not just a Sunday religion. They observed the statutes (laws), avoided the judgments (warnings), and followed his commandments continually (v. 40). Finally, they had faith in the prophecies of the future (v. 40). We have similar prophecies concerning the Americas today. If we serve the God of this land, we will not be swept off from the land. We will be free from bondage and captivity by all other nations (see Ether 2:8–12). These promises are applicable to everyone whether members of His Church or not, and whether in the military or not.

The ending of Helaman’s epistle to Moroni shows his concern for all of the Nephite people, as well as Moroni (Alma 58:41). His leadership must have also inspired the young warriors.

Table 1 • Alma 56–58 Battles of the 2060 Sons of Helaman

Book of Mormon Commentary: The Record of Alma

References