I Nephi 2, once again we learn that Nephi is young maybe in his early to mid teens and he is in tune with the spirit. In both chapter 1 and 2 we learn something very important for us. Nephi did not just believe his fathers words, he pondered them and then went to the Lord to ask if they were correct. Because of Nephi's faith the Lord did soften Nephi's heart. I can only imagine how he felt, his father had just told them all that they were moving, but they would be taking nothing with them. They lived in opulence and wealth, now they would be just like many others that they dealt with (Lehi was probably a merchant) poor and without a home. Nephi and his brothers would be leaving all their friends they had grown up with. So even though Nephi was spiritually intune and open, the Lord had to soften his heart. Lord visited him. In person? In a dream? In his perception? But the Lord visited him and showed him his future, or at least part of it. The Lord showed Nephi His will for him. I am sking the Lord for that gift. It may not be too long before the Lord asks us to do the same thing he asked of Lehi's family, leave everything, all of their possession's and all of their stuff and head off into the wilderness. I'm not sure this will be required of all of us but some perhaps.

In 1 Nephi chapter 1 we learn a number of interesting things. First that Nephi is a young man who has already had spiritual experiences. He comments on his great knowledege of "the goodness and mysteries of God". This means that he has diligently sought to know God and to seek wisdom from Him. We also learn a little about Lehi. My feeling is that he was not yet considered a prophet, but he heard the other prophet talk about the coming destruction of Jerusalem and had to know for himself (what a great idea). As he prayed the Lord revealed may great and wonderful things, including about Christ and his 12 apostles going forth. I think after this experience he was compelled to go out and preach and prophesy.