1 Nephi Ch1

Read the headings! They give you a overview of what you're about to read. Very helpful! I will refer to certain verses with a v# and give insights as I feel desired.

The 1st book of Nephi is written by the 3rd son of Lehi and Sariah. Makes this record according to his knowledge of what happened.

v4- The Lord has sent many prophets for the purpose of saving Jerusalem. In v5 we see that Lehi went to pray to The Lord which makes me think he was taught by one of the prophets and was one of few who did something about it. He was given great knowledge (v6-15) because of the faith he exhibits.

In the vision it talks about Lehi reading from a book (v11-13). I believe this book is the book that is sometimes referred to as the book of life. When we are told what is sealed on Earth is also sealed in heaven, it is recorded in the book of life.

I had a religion class in my community college a few years ago and my teacher shared his opinion on the book of life. I've always remembered it because it was so interesting. Imagine Heavenly Father has this book that tells the history of the entire Earth, things before our time and after. He can turn to any point in history like it is the present and edit this book. To us nothing changed because it is the past we already know. Interesting stuff right? I don't know if that's how it works but it's a cool thought.

Anyway, in v17 we see that in the beginning of 1st Nephi we have an abridgment of Lehi's records. 

v20 says "I, Nephi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of The Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance." You have been chosen. His tender mercies will be stretched forth unto you because you are faithful. Nephi and the scriptures will help you too!