Alma 8:26

26 And now, Amulek, because thou hast fed me and taken me in, thou art blessed; for I was an hungered, for I had fasted many days.

"For I was an hungered...and ye took me in." Literally right out of the New Testament. (MATT 25:35 The exact words of Jesus Christ himself. Beautiful!

(Later...) As I pondered this experience for Alma. I thought of 2 additional beautiful thoughts:

1. The angel didn't tell him, "Don't worry! When you go back it's going to be easier, no one will spit on you. In fast, God has prepared a new friend for you, whose going to meet you just up the road! Easy peasy."

The angel didn't tell him not to fear. Alma had to do that on his own - with his faith. God knew he would be just fine, but didn't tell Alma that. Instead- He gave Alma the opportunity to trust God. And Alma did, with quickened step and a high head not unlike Nephi going back for the plates- both into what seemed to be imminent danger, but with complete trust in God.

They knew God had them. And He did (and He's got me too.) And by having faith in God, they were strengthened, blessed, and both received miracles.

How can I apply this? What are my seemingly imminently dangerous situations?

2. Also- as I pondered this, the perfect lyrics to the hymn, "Let us all press on" kept coming to my mind. "If we do what's right, we have no need to fear, for the Lord, our helper, will even be near. In the days of trial, His saints He will cheer, and prosper the cause of truth. Fear not! Though the enemy deride. Courage! For the Lord is on our side! We will heed not what the wicked may say, but the Lord, alone, we will obey... -But an unseen power will aid me and you in the glorious cause of truth."

(One more note on this verse- Alma was fasting when the angel came.)

(And one more question- was it the same angel that visited both Alma and Amulek?)

So wonderfully, deliciously, ponderable.

I'll try to go forward trusting today.