Nephi obtained the Brass Plates.

1 Nephi 4

References to the Lord:

He is mightier than all the earth. The Lord is able to deliver us. The Spirit led Nephi (and so may we be led). The Spirit "constrains." The Lord may slay the wicked to bring about His purposes. The Lord speaks. He gives commandments. The Lord strengthens man. He lives. The Lord prospers the obedient.

This is not one of my favorite chapters, but it is an important one. I am always impressed with the faith Nephi showed as he went back into Jerusalem by himself, believing the Lord would help him obtain the Brass Plates but not knowing how it would come about. He came onto Laban lying drunken on the ground near his house. It seems a natural thing for a young man to take note of Laban's sword, and he picked it up and admired the fine workmanship and materials. It would be interesting to know what Nephi first thought of when he found Laban, but obviously it wasn't his intent to kill him. He was horrified when he was commanded twice by the Spirit to slay him, and even though he knew he must obey, he had to convince himself that Laban deserved to die. He was a peace-loving young man who had no desire to harm anyone. By being faithful and obedient, Nephi was able to obtain the plates.

I wish today was more like Nephi's time when a man's word or oath was valid. Laban's servant, Zoram, was frightened when he discovered Nephi was not Laban, but he trusted that Nephi would follow through on his promises, and he willingly went with him into the wilderness. Zoram made an oath that he would go with the brothers to join Lehi, and his word was enough. Trust was established. Today a person's word is almost worthless, even when written, signed, notorized, and whatever else is done to try to make it binding. How wonderful it would be if people were trustworthy and trusting. Some are, but most aren't. Telling the truth and keeping promises are almost lost arts except among the truly righteous.