3 Nephi 4

The righteous gathered together all in one place as a way to defend themselves from their enemies. We gather today in stakes, wards, and branches so that we can strengthen and protect one another. 


The Nephites and Lamanites who gathered together faced a horrifying enemy. The robbers came in large numbers in full battle array and dyed in blood. But the people "did not them; but they did fear their God and did supplicate him for protection." (v. 10) Psalm 147:11 reads

11 The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.

This trust in Jesus Christ led to a great victory, for which the people gave glory to God. 

32 Yea, they did cry: Hosanna to the Most High God. And they did cry: Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty, the Most High God.

33 And their hearts were swollen with joy, unto the gushing out of many tears, because of the great goodness of God in delivering them out of the hands of their enemies; and they knew it was because of their repentance and their humility that they had been delivered from an everlasting destruction.

The power to overcome all enemies (persecution, temptation, weaknesses of all kinds) lies in the fear of God. If we are humble and repent of our sins and look to Him, we can be delivered.