How can we be delivered out of our afflictions? In life we sometimes are casual in our relationship with God and in our prayers of thanksgiving. We do as we wish until the afflictions and need are so severe that we feel overwhelmed—and then we call upon the Lord for help. Because of our iniquity and lack of faith, the Lord is slow to hear our cries. It is vital to remember that blessings are given according to our faith, diligence, and patience as we receive the word and give heed to it (see 1 Nephi 16:28; Alma 7:26; 37:44; 49:30; 3 Nephi 12:1). It is important to do all we can to succeed rather than just ask the Lord and expect that He will deliver us and do all the work. Oliver Cowdery learned why he was unable to translate—he had to do his part in order to succeed (see D&C 9:3–9). Limhi’s people finally counsel together and, under the inspired plan of Gideon, are delivered out of bondage (see Mosiah 22:1–13)