The catalyst for change in Alma‘s darkest hour was the memory of his father’s teachings. Much like the prodigal son who thought of his father as he suffered and would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat (Lu 15:16), Alma‘s thoughts turned to his father’s teachings of Christ. This was the single thing which brought about the mighty change that Alma so dearly needed. The same thing happened to the prophet Enos. He tells of the wrestle which [he] had before God…and the words which I had often heard my father speak concerning eternal life, and the joy of the saints, sunk deep into my heart (Enos 1:2-3, italics added).
The lesson to be learned, then, is that there is hope for the many parents who struggle with their wayward children. They try to teach correct principles but the teachings, sometimes, seem to fall on deaf ears. Nevertheless, when wayward children hit rock-bottom, they will naturally think of their parents. They will realize that they need the help of a power greater than themselves. If they have been taught of the Savior and eternal principles, their minds will turn to the Lord. Like the prodigal son, they will finally understand the importance of their parents‘ diligent efforts and the Savior’s atoning sacrifice.
One Sister wrote about how her experience was similar to that of Enos and Alma:
"About five years ago, I was in a state of rebellion. Even though my parents had done their best in raising me, I was lost in a desolate world. My angry words wrenched to the very core of their beings, and with aching hearts they cried unto the Lord for me.
"Somewhere, somehow, a light turned on for me, and all the words that my mother and father had taught me flooded into my mind. I realized that I was ruining not only my life, but also my eternal progression. How could I have been so blind?
"Now that I am older and serving a mission, I have an even greater understanding and appreciation for the words of my parents. Those words have sunk deep into my heart.
“To those parents who have children lost in the world, please do not give up hope. Someday they will remember your words. They will then be humble and ready to receive the gospel. Until then, just love them as you have always loved them. - Sister P. Phillips, Ellicott City, Md.” (Church News, Apr. 20, 1996, “Living by the Scriptures”)