If there is a recurring theme in Benjamin's sermon, it must be that his people are to remember their own nothingness, viewing as unworthy creatures (v. 11)—in their own carnal state, even less than the dust of the earth (v. 2). Is such a self-deprecating attitude healthy? Should we really put ourselves down so far that we consider ourselves of less value than the dust of the earth? Aren't we the children of God with intrinsic value and divine potential?
In spite of our untapped potential, our nothingness is so evident when compared to the greatness of God. Benjamin's point is that our relationship with God must be characterized by extreme humility before our Maker. He reminds us that we are indebted to him, forever and ever; therefore, of what have ye to boast? (Mosiah 2:24) Emphasizing our powerlessness compared to God, the Savior asked, Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? (Matt 6:27) Consider the following parable:
'Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.' (Lu 18:10-14)
Benjamin had wisely instructed his people to have publican-like humility, saying, in essence, God be merciful to me a sinner instead of wallowing in Pharisaic pride.