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An Expression of Gratitude, 1 Nephi 1

These first verses Nephi endeavors to establish his credentials that qualify him to make the record that he is about to make.

  • Good upbringing under his parents' mentorship
  • Experienced in many afflictions
  • Highly favored (or blessed) of the Lord
  • Possessing a knowledge of the mysteries of God
I'm looking at this from another perspective this evening though. Instead of listing his credentials, I feel that this is a recognition of his blessings, a thankful acknowledgment at the front this record which sets the tone and position of the author of this text -- gratefully humble and divinely inspired.

Doctrine & Covenants 78:19 expresses well the principle that Nephi embodies here at the beginning of this book.
"And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more."
Gratitude is a precursor to receiving blessings. Where then does obedience fit in to this equation?

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