– Post By King Benjamin
As a king, my highest duty has always been to lead my people in righteousness and ensure their safety against those who would destroy them. Peace is my desire, for I know that a nation that loves God and serves one another will prosper. But I have also learned that peace is sometimes preserved only through strength. I do not take pride as a warrior, but in my early years, I stood at the head of my armies, sword in hand, defending the land of our inheritance from the Lamanites who have sought our destruction for over four hundred and eighty years since our forefathers fled the destruction of Jerusalem.
When I ascended to the throne after the reign of my father, Mosiah, our people enjoyed prosperity for a season. We tilled the land, built homes, and worshiped according to the commandments of our God. But soon, the Lamanites, stirred up by hatred and the traditions of their fathers, again came upon us with great force, seeking to overthrow our kingdom. They had no regard for our ways or our God; their only desire was conquest and bloodshed.
I could not stand idly by and let my people be destroyed. I gathered my armies, men of faith and courage, and we armed ourselves with swords, bows, slings, and spears. But I also knew that we could not rely on our weapons alone. Before the renewed war, I called upon my people to fast and pray, that the Lord would strengthen our hands and deliver us.
Among the weapons wielded in battle, I carried the Sword of Laban, a precious treasure of our fathers and a symbol of God’s deliverance. This sword, first wielded by Nephi when he established our nation, has been passed down through generations of righteous kings. To hold it in my hand was to remember our heritage, the covenants of our ancestors, and the power of God in preserving His people. It was not the size of the sword nor the sharpness of its blade that brought victory, but the faith of those who bore it into battle.
The Lamanites outnumber us, their warriors are fierce and relentless. Their war cries echo through the land, striking fear into the hearts of many. But we stand firm, trusting in the Lord. I lead my men into battle, the Sword of Laban as a symbol of our dedication to God. As in every war the ground is soon soaked with the blood of both Nephite and Lamanite.
Though our enemies fought with fury, we had the strength of the Lord with us. Our cause was just—we fought not for riches, not for land, but for our families, our freedoms, and our right to worship God. With every strike, we call upon the Lord for strength, and He does not forsake us.
At last, victory was ours, but I knew it was not my sword, nor the strength of my arm, that had saved us. It was the power of God, given to those who trust in Him.
Though we were victorious, I do not rejoice in the shedding of blood. War brings sorrow even in triumph. Many good and righteous men fell in battle, and many families were left without fathers and sons. I mourn for them, and I pray that our people will never again be forced to take up arms against our brethren.
Now, in my old age, I look back upon my life and see the hand of God in all things. He delivers us from our enemies, strengthens our hands in battle, and preserves our nation. I pray that my people will continue in righteousness so that they may never again need to fight as I have fought. But if the day comes when they must, I pray they will fight as we once did—with courage, with faith, and with the knowledge that God is their true deliverer.
To those who read this account, know that war is not the desire of the righteous, but sometimes it is the duty of the faithful. If ever you are called to defend your homes and families, do so with honor and trust in the Lord. But above all, seek peace, for only through God’s love can true victory be found.
