Ammon and Motherhood

We often relate the story of Ammon in the Book of Mormon to missionary work.

I have been studying motherhood lately, but this morning as I began my daily reading of the Book of Mormon, I realized that I was reading the first part of the story of Ammon. This is one of my favorite Book of Mormon stories, but not because of Ammon cutting off arms.

I actually love the prelude to Ammon’s story – when Alma the younger meets the sons of Mosiah after they have been preaching the gospel in various lands for nearly fourteen years and “they were still his brethren in the Lord...they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth...”

How did they become such strong influences for good? They “searched the scriptures diligently... they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting...” This preparation and devoutness had given them “the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation.” Moreover, “when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.”

As I mother I recognize the need for all of these blessings (the spirit of prophecy and revelation, and most importantly power and authority from God). Why? Because “by the power of their words many were brought before the altar of God, to call on his name and confess their sins before him.”

Motherhood does not release you from bringing God’s children unto Him. We have a responsibility to raise our children in righteousness, and raise them up to the Lord. This includes bringing them “before the altar of God, to call on his name and confess their sins before him.” We need to teach our children this very important process of repentance and obedience to God’s laws.

There is a lot more insight for mothers to be found in this story, but I’ll save that for another day.

Is there a scripture story that teaches you more about motherhood? How are you teaching your children to come before the altar of God? How do you increase the power and spirit you have as a mother?