Having inspired his listeners and us, his readers, with the charge to “not hang down our heads” (2 Nephi 10:20), Jacob now emboldens us with “cheer up your hearts.” The Savior has taught in all ages to “be of good cheer.” In a sense, the Lord, all the prophets, and all true followers are cheerleaders; we are called to promote optimism and happiness.
President Thomas S. Monson assured us, “The moral footings of society continue to slip, while those who attempt to safeguard those footings are often ridiculed and, at times, picketed and persecuted.” He continued: “Fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.” 29
It is your choice—life or death, the will of God or the will of the devil—but remember that it is only by the grace of God that anyone can be saved. Only God can rescue you from physical death, by the power of the resurrection, and from spiritual death, by the power of his atonement.
Thus ends Jacob’s masterful “conference talk” as recorded on the small plates of Nephi.