2 Nephi 6-9 Why we do what we do

Nephi's brother, Jacob, is teaching now. I really like how Jacob teaches; he seems to say everything plainly and clearly. I know I can learn a lot from his teachings.

In verse 2 he explains that he was called and ordained. He understands that this is an important distinction and that it is important for people to know - you must have the Priesthood and be called before you take on important duties.

Next he explains why he is faithfully fulfilling his calling and assignment. I can openly admit that I still do my visiting teaching  because I know it is important and because I don't want to be a 'slacker'. I serve out of a sense of duty. I understand the reasons for visiting teaching and know that it is a divine program and there are Eternal consequences when we serve faithfully as well as when we don't. The consequences are ours as well as those to whom we should have visited. Yes, I know all that and yet every month I have to convince myself to actually get out of my own life and get involved in the sisters' lives.

Jacob says in verse 3 that he speaks repeatedly to them because he is "desirous for the welfare of your souls. Yea, mine anxiety is great for you;....... for I have exhorted you with all diligence; and I have taught you the words of my father; and I have spoken unto you concerning all the things which are written, ..............v 4 - ...And I speak unto you for your sakes, that ye may learn and glorify the name of your God."

Chapter 9 he explains why again, "I speak unto you these things that ye may rejoice and lift up your heads forever, because of the blessings which the Lord God shall bestow upon your children."

All of his focus is on the welfare of those he teaches, for their sakes. He knows that people want to do what is right when they understand WHY it is important. He's not just passing on scriptures; he isn't just pounding knowledge in their heads. He speaks to their souls and minds and hearts the things that they need to know and do in order to be happy. That's the whole purpose of what we teach and what we do - to lead us to happiness.

I could go on and on in chapter 9; it's one of my favorites. He explains more clearly than almost any other scripture the purpose of our life on earth and the reason for the atonement. He explains what would happen if there weren't an atonement. He explains the 1st and 2nd death, and the judgement.

One of the most important words in chapter 9 is in verse 41 - REMEMBER. We have to remember the what and the why.

Another tell in chapter 9 as to why he teaches is in vers 44 and 45. He pleads with his brethren. "O, my beloved brethren, remember my words." He loves them. That's why he serves faithfully. It isn't out of a sense of duty; he loves his brethren. That is the example we can learn from Jacob.