Have you ever stopped to think what an important phrase this could be for your children, or for you as a child? Do you really think that Lehi and Sariah were perfect enough so as to deserve such a title? Maybe, but probably not. Did they just fool Nephi enough for him to think that they were pretty good?
Think about this - the word "good" comes from the same root as the work "god." (OE gōd, means "good"; OE godlīc, means "goodly" and "godly"). So, you could say that the real meaning of this phrase was that Nephi was of truly godly parents.
What does it take to be 'godly?' Try reading the rest of the verse for a brief description of what Nephi's parents did during his childhood: "...therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father; and having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days; yea, having had a great knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of God,..."
He was taught: take time to instruct your children.
Taught in ALL the learning of [his] father: that means what you learn in school, and in life; teach by example, and don't be afraid to elucidate your mistakes as a learning/teaching tool.
Afflictions=High Favor with God: This is something that can only be taught by example. So what does this say about Nephi's parents? Did they complain about hard times? Maybe, but the resolve to understand and accept God's will, will ALWAYS bring out greater lessons learned than mere experience will.
Great knowledge: Because of the preceding points, Nephi was favored with great knowledge to know the mysteries of God.
Want your child to grow up strong in the faith? Follow these steps:
1. Teach them
2. Teach them EVERYTHING you have learned, even the tough lessons
3. Be an example of meekness in submission to the will of God
- Spread the Good News
