Tent

I have been reading in The Book of Mormon lately. Actually, more like feasting on the words of it. It makes me so happy when my study goes beyond reading words on a page, because at times it definitely feels that way. But one must persevere those moments that lack depth to experience a feast.

There were a couple of scriptures that caught my attention. I couldn't help but wonder why these words would be included in Nephi's writings when it was such a laborious task to engrave your thoughts on metal plates back then. (I wonder how their engraving words per minute would compare to my typing speed.)

In 1Nephi 16:6 it says, "Now, all these things were said and done as my father dwelt in a tent in the valley which he called Lemuel." We already knew they were living in tents because of 1Nephi 2:15 where Nephi says "And my father dwelt in a tent." So why would he repeat this, not just once but multiple times.

It seems to me that he was reiterating what their living circumstances were like because they had come from a life of affluence. They had riches and lived in a home, both of which they had left behind. As they journeyed in the wilderness they were living in tents. However, there were many revelatory things that were happening to them while they journeyed in the wilderness. God was leading them to the promised land step by step. They were receiving revelations; many teachings of the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; and direction on how to prepare for their journey. They completed many hard tasks and had to rely on the Lord like never before.

I feel like the lesson I was to learn from this is: our circumstances do not define our relationship with God, and in fact, it is usually in the most humble of circumstances that God is most able to work with us. Am I the only one that rides the wave while it's good and then when things come crashing down, reach out for help? Not that I necessarily forget God, but don't seem to rely on Him as much.

When things are hard He is my constant companion. I know He is still there when things are good and I am the one who creates distance. It isn't even an intentional distancing, I just seem to go on about my life. Perhaps it is supposed to be that way. When we are in affluent times, we practice gratitude and sharing. When we are in less affluent times; we practice humility, patience, and perseverance.

One thing is for certain, no matter what our circumstances are - God blesses us beyond our grandest desires when we live a life that is following His commandments and direction. God is real. God is good. God is in charge and in the details of our lives.