Helaman 7

In the sixty-ninth year, Nephi, the son of Helaman, returned from preaching to people in the north land. He saw his people in an awful situation.

The Gadianton robbers were in power. They used their government positions to steal, kill and sin. They punished good people and let the guilty who paid money go free.

When Nephi saw this, his heart swelled with sorrow. He went to a tower in his garden, kneeled down and cried out in agony: Oh, I wish I had lived in the days when father Nephi came from Jerusalem. I would have joy with him in the Promised Land. His people obeyed God. But I know that these are my days and my soul is filled with sorrow because of the wickedness of my brothers.

As Nephi was pouring out his soul to God, certain men passed by and heard him. They ran and told the people what they had seen. People came to learn the reason for Nephi’s great sadness. When Nephi arose, he saw the crowds watching him.

He asked: Why have you gathered here? Do you want me to tell you about your sins? You stare and wonder. You have great need to wonder about yourselves. The devil has your hearts. How could you surrender to the devil. He wants to fling you down to misery and endless pain?

You left God to get money and fame. You put your hearts on the useless things of this world. If you do not repent, this great city and all your great cities will be taken away. You will have no place in them.

It will go better for the Lamanites than it will for you unless you repent. They have not had the great knowledge that you have. The Lord will be merciful to them. He will lengthen their days and increase their people. I know these things are true because the Lord told it to me.