Shiblon’s counsel is so much shorter than that given to his two brothers that it is difficult to explain. One explanation is that, at least in Shiblon’s case, he may have been present when Alma spoke to Helaman. That would allow us to see this opening line of “I say unto you, even as I said unto Helaman,” as a simple application of part of what he told Helaman. Thus, the blessing or counsel begins in the same way for both: “inasmuch as ye shall keep the commandments of God ye shall prosper in the land.”
Giving both the positive and negative aspects of the promise of the land is particularly important for Shiblon, considering that he will represent both being righteous and being cautious on that path, rather than being led away.
The beginning of this counsel is all positive: “I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God.” Even with that positive beginning, there is still the caution: “I hope that you will continue in keeping his commandments.” Shiblon may be used for the modern reader as the example of those who are righteous, but we must continue to work at our righteousness. We are tempted, but we must avoid those temptations.