Temptation vs Peace

We have completed week five of the scripture challenge issued September 12th to read two pages a day in the Book of Mormon. That puts us at page 70. Those keeping up will have already read one of my favorite chapters - 2nd Nephi chapter 4. I love verses 15 - 35 which is sometimes called the psalm of Nephi. Verse 27 has a great message where Nephi says "Yea, why should I give way to temptations, that the evil one have place in my heart to destroy my peace and afflict my soul?"

First, I think it should give us all hope that someone a strong as Nephi has given in to temptation, and has overcome it. But the great message I get from this verse is the motivation it gives for not letting ourselves give in to temptation - it destroys our peace and afflicts our soul! It's just not worth it. A person may have lots of challenges in the world, but if they can still feel peace if they are righteous. I pray we can all avoid temptation and feel the peace that comes from doing so and follow Nephi's advice in verse 28, "Awake my soul! No longer droop in sin. Rejoice, O my heart, and give place no more for the enemy of my soul."