Ether 2--One Nation Under God?

Ether 2:10-12 is just one of many places in the Book of Mormon that talks about why the Americas are referred to as "the promised land."  It is a land obtained with a promise.  It is a choice land given with the understanding that "he that doth possess it shall serve God or shall be swept off." (v.10)  In verse 12 it says "whatsoever nation shall possess it (the land) shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ."  As I look around me, I just don't see enough evidence that we as a nation are doing this.  I try to look at the positive and see the good, but recent events have greatly saddened me, and I must say I am not sure what to do to improve the state of the nation.

So, I pray.  I pray for our leaders.  I pray to know what I can do.  I ponder on the words from The Family: A Proclamation to the World:

"...we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets."

I pray for the upcoming generation as I watch Satan attempt to muddle the truth about what is good and what is evil.

No grand plan presents itself to me.  Only the simple words from Proverbs come to my mind:

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct they paths."  (Proverbs 3:5-6)

I know that if each day I am a) aware, b) prayerful, and c) humble enough to do that which the spirit guides me to do it will make a difference.  I know that each act of righteousness has an impact.  And most of all, I know who will ultimately win this struggle between good and evil.  Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world.  I have faith that all will happen as the scriptures say.  Someday righteousness will prevail and Christ will reign.  My challenge is to live so there is no doubt as to whose side I am on.