Spiritual Vigilance
Spiritual Vigilance
President Quinn’s Weekly Message
California Santa Rosa Mission
August 26th, 2024
The wars chapters in the Book of Mormon teach us many important lessons. After fighting a victorious war against the Lamanites for fourteen years, the Nephites return to their lands. They became less vigilant in defending themselves against their conquered enemy, the Lamanites. Contention also arises among the Nephites upon the death of Pahoran, the man who had served as Chief Judge for many years. Three of Pahoran’s sons desire to become the Chief Judge of the Nephites – contentions and distractions arise among the Nephites as they struggle to settle on a leader. The consequences are destructive:
“And it came to pass that because of so much contention and so much difficulty in the government, that they had not kept sufficient guards in the land of Zarahemla; for they had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the heart of their lands to attack that great city Zarahemla. But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth … and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies. Therefore Coriantumr did cut down the watch by the entrance of the city, and did march forth with his whole army into the city…” (Helaman 1:18-20)
The Lamanites were successful in capturing cities at the center of the Nephite nation because the Nephites had become casual and distracted. The Nephites never imagined their strongholds could be compromised by an invading Lamanite army.
This account in the Book of Mormon teaches us the need for being vigilant in protecting the “centers” of our lives. Those places upon which our discipleship to Jesus Christ have been built – obedience to our covenants, daily scripture study and prayer, temple attendance, and service to others. If we are not vigilant in our discipleship to Jesus Christ, destructive and cunning forces of the advisory can combine to invade those areas of our lives that are essential to our eternal well-being.
Fortunately, the Nephites nation was led militarily by a wise general – Moronihah. The son of the great Captain Moroni:
“But when Moronihah had discovered this, he immediately sent forth Lehi with an army round about to head them before they should come to the land Bountiful.” (Helaman 1:28)
If we discover that our spiritual defenses have been compromised, we need to do what Moronihah did – we must “immediately” take the appropriate actions that will allow us to restore that which was lost. These actions could include more vigilance in scripture study, prayers, temple attendance, and repentance to name a few. It is critical we be forever vigilant – protecting and safeguarding the centers of our life. As we also learn in the war chapters, it is easier to protect our places of security than trying to reclaim them. (Alma 59:9)
After some of our CASRM missionaries return home, they report to me that it has been easy for them to return to old habits and to become less vigilant in living the standards of scripture study and prayer they practiced so faithfully as missionaries. I encourage them to recommit to do those things daily that will connect them with the Spirit. I remind them of the importance of the Spirit in their lives.
Sister Quinn and I pray the Lord will watch over and protect you. We know there is safety, strength, peace, and protection in being vigilant to our standards and covenants.
Love,
President Quinn
(707) 758-6380
