FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT--Hiding Away Our Souls

In Alma 24, we read the profound story of the Anti-Nephi-Lehies as they become converted to the gospel to the extent that they choose to bury their swords forever. After obtaining forgiveness from the Lord for very serious sins, they feared that if they had access to their weapons, they might again be tempted to use them in the heat of the moment. Verse 16 explains:

". . . we will hide away our swords, yea, even we will bury them deep in the earth, that they may be kept bright, as a testimony that we have never used them at the last day. . . "

Those who may be struggling with a weakness, such as an addiction to food, can also bury their swords of rebellion, by turning their lives fully unto the Lord and allowing His Atonement to heal them. How can this happen? We need to stay on our knees a little longer each morning and pray a little more fervently. We should be studying our scriptures longer and harder. We should fast, so as to develop humility and discipline. We need to attend the temple more, where we can receive further "light and knowledge." When we do receive help from the Spirit, we need to heed it. These things, along with generally keeping the commandments, will allow us to keep our swords, or human weakness, buried deeply in the earth, lest we become weak again.