1 Ne 16:10 What did the Liahona do?

All are familiar with the use of the Liahona as a compass and director that worked upon faith. However, we sometimes forget that there were writings on the Liahona which changed from time to time. Nephi doesn’t share the meaning of these writings which came directly from the Lord. He does not include them because of their spiritual and sacred nature. They were not directions to go in the wilderness, that was what the spindles were for. These writings were holy and sacred words which did give us understanding concerning the ways of the Lord (v. 29).

1 Ne 16:10 Why don’t we get a Liahona—to guide us through our spiritual wilderness?

Thomas S. Monson

“If man can invent sonar to warn against disaster, and if he can invent whiskers to put on automobile fenders for the protection of white sidewall tires, doesn't it sound reasonable that the Lord would place a warning device within His children, to warn us when we are on a detour, away from His pathway? I bear you my testimony today that we have a guiding light. It is foolproof if we will but use it. It is known, as you know and as I know, as the Holy Ghost-the still small voice.” (BYU Speeches of the Year, Nov. 5, 1963, p.4)

Thomas S. Monson

“The same Lord who provided a Liahona for Lehi provides for you and for me today a rare and valuable gift to give direction to our lives, to mark the hazards to our safety, and to chart the way, even safe passage—not to a promised land, but to our heavenly home. The gift to which I refer is known as a patriarchal blessing. Every worthy member of the Church is entitled to receive such a precious and priceless personal treasure.” (Live the Good Life, p. 36 - 37.)