It is interesting to me that even in Lehi's time, 600 year B.C., genealogy was important. Lehi has a vision in a dream that Nephi and his brothers should go and get the plates of brass from Laban. He says that these plates contain not only a history, but also his genealogy. This is a commandment to Lehi and, even then, Laman and Lemuel murmur. They do not believe this commandment came from the Lord but that it is something that Lehi is asking of them. This can happen to us even now as the Lord gives inspiration to leaders of the church, whether it be prophets or local leaders, and we murmur or simply do not follow the instruction. We can fall into the same trap of thinking that it is they who are requiring it of us and not the Lord.
Lehi knew what Nephi's response would be before he even shared it. He said that Nephi would be favored because he did not murmur. Then Nephi gives a great response in verse 7. Go and do has become a mantra for many in the church, even sang enthusiastically by primary children. The statement about how the Lord always prepares a way can be especially comforting. This is supported in the references in Genesis and Philippians, where both the ability of the Lord to do all things and that all things can be done with the Lord's help are emphasized. Doctrine and Covenants 5:34 also adds that sometimes we need to wait for the Lord to command us and then the way is prepared. We are also told however that we shouldn't need to be commanded in all things in D&C 58:26. The Lord has instructed throughout scripture that it is through the Spirit that we will know, D&C 11:12 tells us to, "...put your trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good..."
As any father would be, Lehi is pretty happy about Nephi's response and knows that he is blessed.
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