The conditional promise of prosperity (v. 1) was introduced by the Lord to Nephi, son of Lehi, shortly after leaving Jerusalem (see 1 Nephi 2:20), and appears periodically throughout the Book of Mormon. It was also the governing principle given to the Brother of Jared when his people came to America, and was extended to whatever people possessed this land of promise. The warning of bondage from which the fathers of Alma had been delivered (Alma 36:2) was also a warning given to the Jaredites (see Ether 2:9–11). Being delivered only by the God of Abraham. Isaac, and Jacob (Alma 36:2) was given earlier by Alma’s father (Mosiah 23:23), and has also been extended to our day. We must “serve the God of this land, who is Jesus Christ” (Ether 2:12). Jesus Christ was the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (see 1 Nephi 19:10; 2 Nephi 11:7).
Alma’s promise to Helaman that those who trust in God would be supported in their trials, troubles, and afflictions (Alma 36:3) shows that all of us would have such experiences. The Lord does not promise that we will not have those conditions, but that he will support us in them. As Nephi said “it must be, that there is opposition in all things” (2 Nephi 2:11). All of these negative experiences “shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good” as the Lord told Joseph Smith (D&C 122:7). Those who endure their trials will be lifted up and gain eternal life (Alma 36:3). Wherefore, Alma testifies that this principle is of God (v. 4).