We are now in the book of Jacob, brother of Nephi. Nephi dies. Jacob reminds Nephites they can have joy amidst trials. He tells the Nephites that unless otherwise commanded, men are to have only one wife.
Jacob chastises the Nephites for mistreating their wives and children. He reminds the husbands how precious their wives and children are to Him. That they are tender of heart and good. That the husbands have a responsibility to take care of them, treat them with care, and protect them, not hit them, abuse them verbally, or otherwise violate them.
I liken these verses unto me. I used to be a Domestic Violence Advocate and would go to court with women when they needed to file a protection order. I helped women find a shelter for their kids and themselves when they were in danger. I was also a foster kid and came from a past where I had been hit with a closed fist by a man as well as other harmful things. Reading Jacob 1-2 reminded me of God's love for me and how He saw everything. I know He was with me and I was a treasured child of his.
Jacob being bold enough to talk to the Nephites about not practicing polygamy, and caring for and loving the tender women and children, was a very brave and loving thing to do. He warned them that God would punish abusive husbands. He also said that those who obeyed God would be blessed even with wealth if they were willing to sacrifice and accept less. That God in turn would bless them as they used their wealth to clothe the naked, feed the poor, etc.
Likening these Chapters Unto Me
1. I am valued and cherished by God as a Woman and daughter of Heavenly Parents.
2. I deserve to be respected and treated with kindness. I should never have to feel abused physically, violated, be verbally assaulted, or physically harmed by any man.
3. I will be blessed with certain blessings when I choose to use my increase to love and take care of those who have less than me.
4. God sees me and is mindful of me.
This song is a beautiful reminder of Heavenly Fathers love for children.
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