Ether 9

(Below is a list of questions that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

"Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." Rejecting the words of the prophets leads to captivity.

1-35. What does the desire for power and gain lead people to do? Do you think power always corrupts? Why are some corrupted and not others? What can you learn from those who were not corrupted? How might knowing these things help you remain faithful as you receive opportunities for power in your life?

2-3. What influences exist in the world today that tend to harm families? What do you think is ultimately behind these influences? Why do you think Satan desires to destroy the family?

3. In what ways does the Lord preserve the righteous? How hard do you think it might have been for Omer to take his family and depart leaving one son behind?

4-12. What do you think influenced Jared's family not to love one another? How would you describe the family life of these people as a result of their wickedness? Why do secrets and the desire for gain and power have such an evil influence on people?

13. Why do you think Omar was placed back upon the throne as King? How might love keep Satan from being able to destroy a family? What can you do to increase the feelings of love in your family?

15-25. Can a people be wealthy and still live in righteousness? How many years are covered in these verses? How can you enjoy great peace and prosperity and at the same time remain obedient, humble, faithful and righteous?

26-27. After so many years of peace and prosperity what caused the people to begin turn to wickedness?

28-29. What did the Lord do to warn the people of impending judgment from God? How highly do you value and believe the words of the prophets? How can listening to and following the Prophets help you avoid the pain and suffering that are the fruits of poor choices?

30-33. What judgments did the Lord send upon the people to humble them? How does the Lord use physical challenges to help us remember him and turn to see him? How can continually seeking the Lord in your life help you avoid unnecessary hardship and challenges? How does continually seeking the Lord in your life help you and strengthen you through the challenges and turmoil that you do experience?

34-35. How is it that when a person thinks they are on the brink of death that they will then turn to the Lord? Why is he their last resort? Where do you put the Lord in your life? How does the Lord treat you when you repent? Why shouldn't he withhold blessings when we turn ourselves so completely against him? How does the presence of his blessings testify to you of his goodness and his love for you? What can you do to be more like him when others seek your forgiveness?