1 Nephi 4:14

When Nephi said "when I heard these words, I remembered..." it makes me think that the Spirit brought scripture and truth to Nephi's remembrance to guide, help and comfort him - especially after such soul wrenching commandment.

Here is what I can learn from verses 11-17 about how to discern God's spirit from my own thoughts, or the temptations of Satan:

1. The Lord impresses us with His will for us. Like a cookie cutter makes an impression on the dough, even very softly. We can feel it if are open, worthy and willingly to receive it.

2. God will help nurture and nourish our willing, yet hesitant, desires. We can be "willing" to do something, yet not want to do it at the same time. As long as we still do it, we are entitled to God's blessings.

(What does a "willing heart" mean? If willing doesn't necessarily mean want?)

3. The Spirit may repeat impressions (cookie dough analogy- making the 1st impression deeper).

4. As Nephi tried to talk to his hesitant heart, I believe he was doing so to nurture the impression he was given. He could have self-spoken all the reasons not to do it, or nourished his own natural desires, but he was willing to be willing. He was trying (I believe) to prepare himself to do what God wanted that he didn't. Such a perfect example of "willing."

As Nephi nurtured obedient thoughts, he opened himself up to more impressions and guidance from the Spirit, which he received. He received 2 more reassurances to help him do what the Lord commanded. Nephi spoke those testifying words in 3:7 and now he is exercising and experiencing the promise.