strongholds of happiness

STONE FORT
Illinois

This past week I have been studying Alma 50. It's an interesting chapter of the Book of Mormon because it's smack in the middle of the war chapters yet filled with hope and promise. In verses 19 and 20 I was reminded of the promises of the Lord. Then in verse 23 I read this remarkable statement, "but behold there never was a happier time among the people of Nephi since the days of Nephi, than in the days of Moroni."

So why where Moroni and his people happy? In verse 6 it says "Moroni did prepare strongholds against the coming of their enemies." Then is verse 12 it says that Moroni and his armies "increased daily because of the assurance of protection." It's apparent to me that one of the factors contributing to the happiness in Moroni's time was a sense of safety and security that came as a result of preparation.

In September, David and I went on a Book of Mormon Evidence Tour. On one of our stops we climbed to the top of Stone Fort, an ancient fortified hilltop, believed to be built during Book of Mormon times. It's really cool to stand atop a rock wall and be able to visualize the kind of preparations made by Moroni. Undoubtedly, in addition to building rock walls, Moroni and his people were building "upon the rock of our Redeemer." (Helaman 5:12)

I believe the preparations that lead to happiness today are simple things like, daily prayer, scripture study, following the prophet and participating fully in a home centered, gospel supported church. I have a testimony of what President Nelson shared in his October 2016 Conference address, "the joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives."