Life is good for Lehi, working in his father’s prosperous trade business. His father Nephiniah and older brother are killed when their caravan is attacked by bandits, leaving Lehi to inherit the business and large estate just outside of Jerusalem.

Lehi prospers, adding three more sons and three daughters to his family, but the good times end when Josiah was killed in battle. Under rule of foreign powers, political turmoil, and a succession of wicked kings Judah returns to their idolatrous ways.

Lehi and Sariah remain faithful and try to raise their family accordingly, but business often takes him on the road to distant cities. His business and property are spared when Jerusalem is looted by the Babylonians and many are taken captive.

During the first year of the reign of Zedekiah, Lehi has a remarkable vision and is called of the Lord. Under the direction of Jeremiah, Lehi and others warn the people of impending destruction if they don’t return to the Lord, being met with ridicule and opposition. Lehi’s cousin Laban, the captain of the king’s guard imprisons Jeremiah and has others executed. The Lord directs Lehi to gather his family taking what they can and flee Jerusalem.