Here is an application for modern missionaries finding a whole family prepared by the Lord: (1) “We went up unto the house of Ishmael,” the investigator; (2) “we did gain favor in the sight of Ishmael” by establishing a relationship of trust and confidence; (3) “we did speak unto him the words of the Lord”; (4) “the Lord did soften the heart of Ishmael, and also his household”; and (5) “they took their journey with us”; they were willing to join with them.