Spiritual Vigilance
Spiritual Vigilance
President Quinn’s Weekly Message
California Santa Rosa Mission
September 6th, 2025
The wars chapters in the Book of Mormon teach us many important lessons. After fighting a victorious war against the Lamanites for fourteen years, the Nephites return to their lands. They became casual and less vigilant in defending themselves against their conquered enemy, the Lamanites. Contention also arises among the Nephites upon the death of Pahoran, the man who had served as Chief Judge for many years. Three of Pahoran’s sons desire to become the Chief Judge of the Nephites – contentions and distractions arise among the Nephites as they struggle to settle on a leader. The consequences are destructive:
“And it came to pass that because of so much contention and so much difficulty in the government, that they had not kept sufficient guards in the land of Zarahemla; for they had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the heart of their lands to attack that great city Zarahemla. But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth … and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies. Therefore Coriantumr did cut down the watch by the entrance of the city, and did march forth with his whole army into the city…” (Helaman 1:18-20)
The Lamanites were successful in capturing cities at the center of the Nephite nation because the Nephites had become casual and distracted in their defenses. The Nephites never imagined their strongholds could be compromised by an invading Lamanite army.
This account in the Book of Mormon teaches us the need for being vigilant in protecting the “centers” of our lives – those places upon which our discipleship to Jesus Christ have been built – obedience to our covenants, daily scripture study and prayer, temple attendance, and service to others. If we are not vigilant in consistently developing and protecting the centers of our discipleship to Jesus Christ, destructive and cunning forces of the advisory can combine to invade those areas of our lives that are essential to our eternal well-being.
Fortunately, the Nephites nation was led militarily by a wise and inspired general, Moronihah, the son of the great Captain Moroni:
“But when Moronihah had discovered this, he immediately sent forth Lehi with an army round about to head them before they should come to the land Bountiful.” (Helaman 1:28)
If we discover that our spiritual defenses have been compromised, we need to do what Moronihah did – we must “immediately” take the appropriate actions that will allow us to restore that which was lost. These actions could include more vigilance in daily scripture study and prayer, regular temple attendance, and repentance to name a few. It is critical we always be vigilant to protect and safeguard the centers of our life. As we also learn in the war chapters, it is easier to protect our places of security than trying to reclaim them. (Alma 59:9)
President Nelson has taught us the importance of spiritual viligence:
“With frightening speed, a testimony that is not nourished daily “by the good word of God” can crumble. Thus, the antidote to Satan’s scheme is clear: we need daily experiences worshipping the Lord and studying His gospel. I plead with you to let God prevail in your life. Give Him a fair share of your time. As you do, notice what happens to your positive spiritual momentum. (President Nelson, GC April 2022, The Power of Spiritual Momentum)
Sister Quinn and I pray the Lord will watch over and protect you. We know there is safety, strength, peace, and protection in being vigilant to our standards and covenants.
Love,
President Quinn
(630) 881-4030
