It is interesting that one of the communal responses to their religious revival was the desire to share their new resolve with the Lamanites. Of course the Lamanites had not had the same preparation as the Nephites, nor such a dramatic episode on which to base a complete change of course, so the preaching did not take effect. Nevertheless, it is true that one of the effects of the receipt of the force of the Spirit is the desire to share it.
Jacob rather tersely notes that the Lamanites continued to make war against the Nephites. After this many years, it is difficult to use the hatred of Laman and Lemuel as an excuse for war, although it is possible. It is just as likely, however, that the Lamanites became involved in the Mesoamerican social models that had a greater place for warfare than early Mesoamerican scholars had supposed. It is also possible that the town of Nephi was a desirable target precisely because of its accumulation of worldly wealth.
Jacob 7:25
25 Wherefore, the people of Nephi did fortify against them with their arms, and with all their might, trusting in the God and rock of their salvation; wherefore, they became as yet, conquerors of their enemies.
Jacob notes that the Nephites made moves to defend themselves. The Nephites are not placed in the role of aggressors in these early skirmishes. While it may have been a result of religion, it is equally a result of the success of their alternative survival strategy. As traders they were able to expand their power and influence without the need for military conquests.