Lehi's journey was thus continued for a long time. The company would travel for a few days, then rest and hunt, then again take up their directed course as the compass indicated. It generally guided them through the most fertile portions of the great desert. Their journeys appear to be frequently disturbed by the actions of Laman and Lemuel and of those who would heed them.
An incident of this recurring mutiny led by Nephi's older brothers is recorded in Chapter 16, 1 Nephi, beginning with the 18th verse. There it is stated that Nephi broke his bow which was made of fine steel. His brothers became angry with him because of it; a scarcity of food and subsequent famine threatened the camp.
1 Ne. 16:22). This brought Nephi out in defense of the Lord. "I, Nephi, spoke much unto my brethren, because they had hardened their hearts again." Note that Nephi did not rebuke his father.
The next step of Nephi was to make a bow of wood, and to prepare a sling and to gather suitable stones. Thus equipped, he asked his father for instructions as to where to go to find game. Nephi recognized the authority of his father as head of the family.
Lehi now truly repentant for his rash actions in criticizing with others conditions unfortunately brought about, sought the Lord in this time of trouble. He went before his Maker in all humility, with sorrow in his heart.