The contrast between Limhi and his cowardly father are striking. Both of them were placed in similar situations, they were facing an attack from their Lamanite neighbors. Each handled the situation completely differently. Noah was completely unprepared; Limhi had discovered…all their preparations for war (v. 8). Noah responded by commanding his people to flee; Limhi used a wise strategy to maximize his chances against a larger army—he ambushed them (v. 9). Noah encouraged cowardice and the abandonment of family; Limhi’s people fought like dragons for their wives and children. Noah’s people lost terribly in their battle; Limhi was able to drive the Lamanites before him. Noah relied on the arm of flesh, lacked faith, and had no integrity; Limhi demonstrated his reliance on the Lord, showed his great faith and his impressive integrity.
In effect, Limhi had redeemed his people militarily, spiritually, and morally, and he gave his people a chance to redeem themselves. Remember that there were many of Limhi’s people who had earlier abandoned their families (Mosiah 19:12). These were finally given leadership under a king with courage. Their response reflected the greatness of their leader. They now had a chance to redeem themselves in the eyes of their wives and children, and they took advantage of the opportunity, therefore they exerted themselves and like dragons did they fight.