Through the Deep Waters

For some reason I am gleaning so much more from the scriptures now than I ever have. Perhaps it is because of life experiences. Perhaps it is because I'm older. And maybe it's just because I know now, more deeply than I ever have in my life, that they are true. I have seen God's hand in my life now more than ever, even though this last year has been harder than any other. But this knowledge gives me hope. And that hope is keeping my head above the tide. As the poet Joseph Hilaire Belloc wrote, "It darkens. I have lost the ford. There is a change on all things made. The rocks have evil faces, Lord, And I am [sore] afraid." But I know that God loves his children, and none of them that trust in him will be left desolate. So here is a small gem I was able to find in my current reading of the Book of Mormon, and I think it highlights some nuances within the profound truths of the Gospel. Juxtapostion of the Experiences of the People of Limhi and the People of Alma, found in Mosiah, chapters 17-25
People of Limhi
Trials were self-inflicted
Ruled by a "just man"
Limhi was compelled to be humble
Limhi became leader by birth and by the voice of the people
Experienced "great lamentation and mourning" when they reaped what they sowed
Lived much of the time in bondage
Experienced many wars and deaths
Had to wait to be baptized
Escape from bondage was devised by man (not even the king)
Enemies subdued by wine
Entered into a covenant to serve God after they were made humble
Had to be exhorted by Alma to remember that it was God who delivered them
People of Alma Trials were allowed by God to test faith and patience Ruled by a Prophet Alma chose to be humble after hearing Abinadi Alma became leader by calling "multiplied and prosper[ed] exceedingly" Lived a part of the time in bondage No wars Baptized first, by Alma Escape from bondage was God's plan Enemies subdued by the power of God Entered into a covenant before their test of faith Gave thanks to God immediately after deliverance (even before they were out of danger)
Both:
Were in bondage with difficult burdens
Received help in order to learn and escape
Were allowed to suffer even after pleading for help in order to prove their patience
Had their burdens lightened after pleading & showing faith
Eventually prospered
In both trials and escapes the word of the Lord was fulfilled: Limhi's people suffered as Abinadi prophesied; Alma's people were aided and rescued as Alma prophesied
"The Lord seeth fit to chasten his people; yeah, he trieth their patience and their faith. Nevertheless---whosoever putteth his trust in him the same shall be lifted up at the last day." Mosiah 23:21-22