Knowledge from God | 1 Nephi 18:2, 9

Loss of Knowledge

Laman and Lemuel were just shocked by the Lord and recognized His power as supreme. They saw the workmanship of the Lord through Nephi and their own labors. They knew it was done through the power of God and were brought down in humility. Yet in a short amount of time, they lose that knowledge. It was not the first time; in 1 Nephi 3:31, the brothers were reprimanded by an angel, yet they continued to murmur and complain as soon as the angel left. These examples demonstrate two ways I can lose light and knowledge that was given to me through obedience and humility.

1. Murmuring and complaining
   See  Seeds of Rebellion.
   
2. Rudeness
   Laman and Lemuel are celebrating and make themselves merry which in and of its self is not bad, but its the way they are doing it with rudeness. They are celebrating their accomplishments—they just walked hundreds of miles through a barren wilderness, built a ship and are sailing to a new land. And, they are taking credit for the power of God. Rudeness comes from selfishness and is the opposite of gratitude and humility. It blinds one from seeing and recognizing the power of God and His tender mercies in their life because they become so focused on themselves and their own accomplishments. Rudeness is caused by a prideful self assurance with no regard for others including God.
   

Retention of Knowledge

In this instance, the scriptures are using the negative to emphasize the importance of this principle. However, I can turn it around and see the positive side or how I can retain the knowledge that the Lord has given me.

1. Take initiative and work hard without complaint with the Lord. Search diligently for His ways and turn to the Atonement for strength.
2. Act with a grateful heart and in humility by recognizing the workmanship of the Lord and relentlessly watching for His tender mercies.