The Nephites needed reassurance. They’d been led across the ocean to the promised land, only to have to move again (not across the ocean this time) to get away from Laman and Lemuel.
Those Lamanites—their cousins—were starting wars with them! What a sad situation.
At some point during this time, Jacob gave a wonderful sermon. Recapping history, he reminded the Nephites that God had always protected His chosen people. Using some of Isaiah’s prophecies, he showed that the Lord would continue to do so.
Jacob ended his message with this happy summary.
“Cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves—to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life” (2 Nephi 10:23).
Heavenly Father has an amazing plan of happiness for us. He gives us scriptures, prophets, and the Holy Ghost to guide us. It’s our choice whether to walk the path to that happiness or not. As we make good choices, God blesses and protects us. He always keeps His promises to strengthen and help us.
Cheer up your hearts!