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Captain Moroni and Courage

As long as there is a Devil among us I am convinced that no coward can ever be saved. He will fight righteousness and goodness with all his heart might mind and strength. Hence any man who sets out to be like Christ and with Christ will quickly discover himself in the fight of his life, thus the need for constant courage. However courage is like memory, both happen in the mind, both tend at times to wane, and both need to be renewed.

Captain Moroni had planned well. His spies had informed him the course that Zerahemnah and his Lamanite armies would take in the wilderness and what city they planned to attack. Moroni got there first and strategically placed his armies. Unaware, the Lamanites walked right into the trap and within a short time, Zerahemnah and his forces were surrounded on all sides. Driven by hate and motivated by anger they had come for conquest—to take away the lives, liberty, rights, freedom, and the property of the Nephites.

Now, however, the tables were turned. Notwithstanding the Lamanites outnumbered the Nephites by more than double, Captain Moroni and the Nephites surrounded their enemies; their stratagems, innovative armor, and shields giving them the upper hand.

But then something happened. A cornered animal is a dangerous animal. Zerahemnah and his chief captains threw themselves against the Nephites fighting fiercely. Inspired by the anger and ferocity of their captains, the Lamanite forces rallied and fought like dragons. “Never had the Lamanites been known to fight with such exceedingly great strength and courage, no, not even from the beginning (Alma 43:43).

And it worked, the Nephites began to give way—their courage began to flag. “And Moroni, perceiving their intent, sent forth and inspired their hearts with these thoughts—yea, the thoughts of their lands, liberty, yea, their freedom from bondage (Alma 43:48). Hearing him, the Nephites stopped running, turned around to face the Lamanites, and with one united voice cried unto their God in prayer for his help. And in that moment—with courage renewed—Moroni’s men stood against the Lamanites with power and Zerahemnah’s men began to run in terror.

The Nephites won the day thanks to that timely reminder that inspired courage. Courage driven by anger and hate is never as enduring as that motivated by faith and hope. In your personal fight for right how’s your courage and resolve? If you feel weak and fearful—ready to run—stop, turn, and pray!