In my continuing exploration of spiritual one-liners, today’s verses come from Nephi’s final teachings: “Pray always, and not faint” (2 Nephi 32:9). Notice how this short phrase captures both a command and a promise—constancy in prayer leads to spiritual endurance.
What strikes me most about these verses is Nephi’s insight into why we sometimes hesitate to pray: “The evil spirit teacheth not a man to pray, but teacheth him that he must not pray” (2 Nephi 32:8). This reveals something powerful about prayer’s power. If the adversary works to prevent us from praying, it must be because prayer connects us to heaven in vital ways.
Think about the implications of Nephi’s counsel to “pray always.” This isn’t just about formal prayers—it’s about maintaining constant spiritual connection. When we’re always in a spirit of prayer, we’re positioned to receive constant spiritual guidance. As Alma would later teach his son, we should “counsel with the Lord in all [our] doings” (Alma 37:37).
The promise that we will “not faint” takes on deeper meaning in this light. When we’re consistently connected to heaven through prayer, we gain spiritual stamina that helps us endure life’s challenges. Prayer isn’t just about asking for help—it’s about maintaining the spiritual connection that sustains us.
I testify that consistent prayer changes us. Like a continuous conversation with a trusted friend, regular communion with our Heavenly Father deepens our relationship with Him and strengthens our spiritual foundation.
Elder Linder 