I am a mother who knows

My blog theme comes from a Book of Mormon story:

There were a group of people who had been wicked and "bloodthirsty."  They were converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and took an oath to never use weapons of war again.  As a symbol of their covenant they dug a huge pit and buried all of their weapons.  Many years later these people were living in the protection of other believers in Christ.  Enemies were coming against them and they were supporting the war efforts by providing food for those who were fighting, people who did not have the same history and had not taken such an oath.  But they felt terribly the burden they were to those who were fighting in their defense.  It was then noted that their young sons had not taken the oath, and could go to war in defense of their families and freedom.  They were put in the charge of Helaman, and he called them his sons.  They fought in several battles and though all recieved injuries, not one was killed.  Here are some of Helaman's words describing them:

"Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.  And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it." Alma 56:47-48

I love their mother's faith.  I love the hope that is shown by a people who had once been guilty of serious sin, but through repentance they had full faith and hope of the Lord blessing them. Sometimes I think that because of our bad choices, or negative past,  the consequence is that our children will inevitably have to suffer because of our weakness or sin.  Yes, their sons did have to go to war, and did receive battle wounds, but the Lord also had miracles in store that would strengthen their faith and prove his mercy to them because they had repented.  Therefore, I can have hope that as we strive to come unto Christ, our children will also be strengthened and the Lord will provide them with the experiences they need, to overcome whatever negative baggage they have picked up from us.

As a mother, I know that God will answer our prayers, if we do not doubt.