The Book of Mormon teaches of a very special friendship that became stronger when it was focused on gospel principles. Early in their lives Alma and the sons of Mosiah rebelled against the teachings of their faithful parents and went about destroying the church of God. They were very cunning and very successful, later confessing that they were the “vilest of sinners” in their efforts to destroy the faith of other members of the church (Mosiah 28:4).
But in response to the prayers of their parents, other members of the church, and the power of God and his angels, these young men were dramatically converted to the truth and immediately set out to “repair all the injuries which they had done to the church” (Mosiah 27:35).
The sons of Mosiah declined the kingship which their father held and chose rather to be missionaries to the Lamanite people. Alma followed in their footsteps, choosing to serve a mission among the Nephite people. What had been an unworthy and destructive association now turned into a powerful and binding friendship, solidified by acts of personal righteousness and devotion.
After 14 years of long, hard, demanding missionary service—service that had included sorrow and opposition as well as miracles of every kind—Alma and the sons of Mosiah were reunited briefly before continuing their work for the Lord. The description of that reunion reveals how strong their friendship and love had become, even in their prolonged absence from one another.
“Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God.
“But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God” (Alma 17:2–3).
I had a friend, in high school, who couldn't have been more different than me. Aside from our differences was a real brotherhood, filled with trust and love for one another. That friendship was never the same once I left on a full-time mission for the LDS church. I have often thought of the conversations we once had. When we did things together, we felt safe. Home life in our respective homes was very different from one another. If I saw him today, I would be very grateful. After graduation from high school, my friend and I took a week long trip to southern California. It was a trip filled with memories that I still think about. We learned some valuable things during that friendship that have made me the man I am today.
Don't ever underestimate the power of being a friend. The words that you speak have a power in and of themselves. Your example, of goodness, will penetrate your friends hearts and have an everlasting effect on their lives.
I have many people who are my friends. I love each one of them. I am eternally grateful for the friendship I have with my Savior, Jesus Christ. I feel of His love for me. His life brings me a great deal of comfort. His perfect example gives me the pattern by which to live my life.
