Mosiah 4:13–15 Parents are obliged to civilize and teach their children. In today's world, many people say it is natural for children to quarrel, be lazy, and be naughty. However true that may be, it is imperative that parents teach children to love others, to serve humanity, and to know the gospel. This teaching should be by word and deed. “The health of any society, the happiness of its people, their prosperity, and their peace all find their roots in the teaching of children by fathers and mothers,” Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, Nov. 1993, 60.
Mosiah 4:16–26 Christians are obliged to care for the poor and needy. Some people refuse to help the needy, because many of these people have brought their problems upon themselves. Just as we are not to judge the sinner, we are not to judge the poor. We don't know the intents of their heart as God does. We are simply supposed to do as we are commanded. Additionally, we are all beggers; we beg for mercy from sin and absolution from justice. Serving with a charitable heart is an important characteristic of members of Christ’s Church. After all, Jesus fed the masses without stopping first to see if they were hungry because of a poor choice. The Lord has established ways in which we can help the needy. Tithes, offerings, school/hygiene/ new born kits, quilts, shoes, clothing, time, and other service given through the Church, allow service without the worry of abuse by corrupt men. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has an wise and orderly means of distribution that can be trusted. There are times in life, when funds or energy are not available to allow this giving. If that is the case, we are not supposed to go hungry or run faster than we have strength. If the intent of the heart is correct, it is enough.
Mosiah 4:27–30 Like Joseph of old, we are to flee from sin and watch our thoughts, words, and deeds. Joseph was committed to God and so must we be. When we watch our thoughts, our actions and words are better kept in check. I can choose to focus on what is wrong with this person or that person, breeding a bad attitude that might result in saying something I regret or acting in an unseemly way. Instead I can choose to see others in the same light as Heavenly Father. Each of us is a work in progress and worthy of the pure love of Christ.
