They began their journey by consecrating themselves to Yahweh and praying for guidance. Indeed, looked at politically, their situation was perilous. They were a band of armed men entering the land of a sworn enemy who had driven out not only the original Nephites but also the Alma/Limhites. Both militarily and politically, they were at risk. Furthermore, they had the goal of preaching the gospel to a people who previously rejected it and probably considered their current religion superior to that of the Nephites. Yahweh’s first response—speaking comfort to them—was to meet the primarily psychological need of soothing their fear.
When the brothers separate, the narrative follows Ammon before King Lamoni, recounting a wonderful outpouring of the Spirit, convert success, and confirmation that the Lord approves of this mission. Beginning with the triumphant story is faith-affirming, while following the other brothers would have a very different narrative effect. Against Ammon’s success is his brothers’ imprisonment where they suffered “hunger, thirst, and all kinds of afflictions” (Alma 20:28–29). Even though all of the brothers fasted and prayed, the first experiences on their missions were dramatically different. Yet one of those brothers, Aaron, converted the king of all of the Lamanites, so ultimately even that story is faith-affirming. The purposes of the Lord do not operate on a mortal timetable, correspond to mortal understandings, or always protect us from mortal circumstances or the agency of others. If we are faithful and steadfast, however, we will accomplish God’s purposes.