The story of Zeniff's experiences in the land of Lehi-Nephi is fraught with peril and unbelievable ineptness. Yet, there is throughout the story a thread of interesting things to learn - things leaders need to know, both good and bad, that will ultimately lead to better leadership:
1. There needs to be unity. Zeniff's disastrous first foray into the land of Lehi-Nephi highlights the need for people to be one. Perhaps the mission was misguided from the beginning, perhaps Zeniff wasn't the best choice for a lieutenant. But once the mission was underway, the leader demands respect as a leader. Zeniff obviously was charismatic and persuasive, and he was probably correct in his desires to protect the Lamanites. Nothing dooms a mission faster than having dissident voices clamoring for attention and devotion.
2. Be careful of over-zealousness and arrogance. In other contexts this is called hubris. Zeniff thought he could negotiate with a people he knew he would not be able to trust. He also was desirous for a land that was not his. King Laman was forced to remove people from the land of Lehi-Nephi, which forcible removal was almost assured to anger the previous residents. Further, willingly committing one's people to a course of action that cuts them off from alternate avenues of support and escape, in addition to completely encircling them with enemies borders on the criminally negligent. It is unclear from the record why he committed these blunders - he admits they were mistakes but gives little insight into why...
3. Prepare for the worst. It will inevitably come. Zeniff, having committed himself and his people to this reckless course of action, seemed to come to his senses a little bit and he began to prepare his people for action. He had to defend his people twice, which caused much destruction on both sides of the struggle. The most important thing he did was to bolster their faith in the Lord and encourage righteous living which will ensure the favor and strength of the Lord. This also highlights the fact that the Lord will assist us if we are faithful, regardless of our previous foibles. This is an encouraging thought...
4. Live life the best you can - setting an example for others. Zeniff may not have been the most inspired leader, but he certainly did not make things worse by levying heavy tax burdens or having his people support him. The Nephite kings had all had set an example in this regard - they worked their own jobs and only viewed their leadership positions as ancillary to their other responsibilities. This enabled them to have the respect of their people and gave them confidence in their own capacity. Further, it ensured that the people did not resent the kings. This helped avoid jealousy and enmity, and fostered a sense of peace and confidence.
We are not always able to choose the situation in which we live. Outside influences seek to destroy us and our peace, but if we are faithful the Lord will grant us peace. The greatest peace stems from the confidence of a life well lived - one where the Lord is close and loving, sharing His grace and mercy and kindness.
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