I am struck by how Sam responds to his father’s vision.

It appears to me that Sam is an underappreciated figure in the Book of Mormon. He isn’t described as having any miraculous visions, but he is described as possessing a believing heart and quiet faith. What impresses me about Sam is that even though he doesn’t have the revelation that Nephi has, he is able to believe on his words and to continue in great faith.

“And I spake unto Sam, making known unto him the things which the Lord had manifested unto me by his Holy Spirit. And it came to pass that he believed in my words.”

Sam never rebels against his brother (though it is implied he joined in with the murmoring when Nephi’s bow broke), and never voices a word of complaint. He is then given a blessing equal to that of Nephi and his descendants are numbered with Nephi’s. Later in Alma 3, he is included in a list of “the just and holy men,” along with Nephi, Joseph, and Jacob.

For all the times when we don’t feel as adequate or as spiritual as Nephi, Sam stands as an example that we don’t have to be. We merely have to press onward with faith in order to be listed among the righteous.