Post by Mosiah – Oh, let us be wise
As I mentioned, the rightful heir to my throne has gone up to the land of Nephi. When I sent a proclamation throughout the land asking my people who they desired to be their new king, of course they wanted my son Aaron, who was not willing to have the kingdom conferred on him. None of my sons wanted the kingdom.
I therefore sent a second declaration among my people proposing a change in the affairs of this people. Throughout the kingdom, our people have rejoiced receiving the freedom to chose those who will rule and serve as judges.
I will continue to serve the remainder of my days as king, yet our people have chosen judges and as our first Chief Judge – Alma.
When Nephi and his people separated from his brothers those many years ago, he cautioned the people they would regret having a king to lead them. During the next 500 years, few kings have led righteously. Many of our people have experienced the wickedness forced upon them by unrighteous kings. The record of the destroyed people we’ve just translated and read, demonstrate over and over the blood shed during the contention between leaders. Wars and sin are the center of Satan’s skill in causing contention. Peace takes work. We must be wise as we choose our judges and create and maintain our laws.
It would be simple and right to be judged by God, for His judgements are always just. Judgements of man are not. It’s that simple. My father, King Benjamin reigned in righteousness. I’ve spent my life in the service of my people. Yet, that may not continue. Though my sons refused the kingdom, what if they changed their minds and returned to their wickedness and returned to claim their right to rule. It would pervert the ways of righteousness.
It is not common that the voice of the people want anything contrary to that which is right. But it is common for the lesser part of the people to desire that which is not right.
We therefore have chosen to do business by the voice of the people. When the people desire iniquity, the judgments of God will come upon them, and they as a people will have chosen that judgment.
I desire that this land be a land of liberty where every man will enjoy his rights and privileges. We know it has been the aim of Satan and those who follow him to destroy liberty. When people can choose freely, knowing good from evil, being educated, having access to truth, the majority will choose right. Those who want that which is not right will seek to silence, or destroy liberty, eliminating reasoned choice. As I study the writings of the prophets and the kings, I see this as a pattern throughout history. I am certain that even through the last days, Satan’s effort will be to silence truth and thus enslave the people.
