Wow, this is a loaded chapter.

In the beginning of the chapter, Nephi tells us that the guilty take the truth to be hard.  I find this very applicable in my life.  Whenever I react to a situation defensively, I almost automatically know that I am in the wrong and will be apologizing for it once I calm down enough to admit it.  I am very grateful for this in my life, because it helps keep in line.

He goes on to tell of his travelings in the wilderness and their possession of a curious ball.  This ball is the Liahona.   It is interpreted as compass, but this compass is no ordinary compass.  The Liahona works according to the diligence and heed you give to the word of the Lord.  So when they are being faithful, the ball points them where they need to go to find food and also writing appears on the ball.  Well, several times throughout this chapter Laman and the rest of the doubters murmur against Nephi.  They are also humbled each time they do.

I can’t help but notice how often Laman, Lemuel and those who follow them murmur and then so quickly are humbled by the Lord.  Then are so quick again to murmur.  I really have to stop and look at myself and see how often it is I murmur against the things in my life which inevitably are things the Lord has given me and thus a murmur against the Lord.  I would just hope that I could be more like Nephi in being steadfast and true!

That is all for now.  I really enjoyed reading this chapter and catching another glimpse of Nephi’s great faith in the midst of terrible doubting.