1 Nephi 18:5–25 I remember the first time I read this, when I wondered what is wrong with making merry? 1 Nephi 18:9. In this instance, the merry makers became rude, vulgar, and coarse. The Lord wants his children to make merry with dancing and singing. "Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation" Psalm 149:1–4. However, He knows Satan can use anything beautiful including dancing or music as a means to destroy God's Children. Therefore, we need to pay attention to how we feel and not listen to music or participate in dancing that drives away the Spirit or makes us forget God. "If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing, and with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving." Doctrine & Covenants 136:28
In his usual manner, Nephi spoke soberly to them 1 Nephi 18:10. They tied Nephi up and left him that way for days; sudden storms rose up. Many on the ship pleaded with them to stop the foolishness and repent. Nothing fazed them until they saw that they were about to be sunk 1 Nephi 18:15–20. There is a problem with rebelling against God, repenting, and returning to the same sin again and again like the brothers did. It is as if the repentance never took place, because the former sin is returned to the sinner D&C 82:7.
But they did repent and untie their brother. Finally, the family arrived in the promised land. After thanking god for their arrival, they began to farm with seeds they brought with them 1 Nephi 18:21–25.
Throughout their trials, anytime difficulties arose some members of the family murmured and complained against God. Nephi didn't present this attitude. He remained obedient and grateful towards the Lord 1 Nephi 18:16. “No obstacles are insurmountable when God commands and we obey” Heber J. Grant, Oct. 1899, 18.
My nature is to be more like the complainers of the bunch, while my desire is to be more like Nephi. Slowly, I'm getting better at finding the silver lining, finding joy, and finding it in my heart to thank God in ALL things. Over the years, I've had my share of trials, large and small. Looking back, I can see that these things have made a great difference in my growth. Did I like it, when these sore trials were upon me? I answer a resounding no. While I wouldn't voluntarily choose any trial, I realize they are for my good; the Lord needs me to learn something new. I am grateful for the lessons.
